A320 Amsterdam Transponder operation

[Flyman35]

Amsterdam requires the aircrafts to select squawk mode A from request to push back or taxi whichever is earlier select and after landing.
Now on the A320 we have the TCAS/ATC switches on the pedestal, some captain say to comply with previous procedure just leave the upper ATC button which have modes –ON-AUTO-STANDBY on ((STNDBY)) rather than AUTO mode after engine shutdown and on AUTO before push and after landing.
Other captain says no it is not that switch it is the switch on TCAS panel with the following modes ((STNDBY-TA-TARA)) and emphasize that this is the required switch for Squawk selection now I am confused which one is the right? Any idea?

[TopSwiss 737]

I am not familiar with the exact equipment fitted to your aircraft. We had a different setup on our 320 series.

From your discription I would say it would be correct to use the (your words) "upper ATC button" in AUTO during ground ops from push back to take-off and after landing.

I guess it would then be logical to use ON when lining up and in flight.

The switch you describe on the TCAS panel with STNDBY-TA-TARA positions seems to be for the operation of the TCAS system only, I don't think it controls the transmission of transponder SSR / mode S signals.

What does your FCOM say about the ATC panel and function of the switches? If youre SOP's are not clear on how to use the equipment, ask your tech pilot's/fleet manager to clarify and maybe adjust the SOP.
It seems that more of your collegues are unsure how to operate the transponder in the case you describe.

Grts TS737

[paddy in the east]

Just leave the switch in AUTO. That will provide the required information like your 3 character call sign and flight number that is entered in the FMGC.

Upon getting takeoff clearance, you select TA/RA and when you vacate the runway you select STBY.

[zonak]

Check your operating manuals

FCOM 3.03.24 and FCOM 1.34.50.

Pos XPDR or AUTO, depending of the onboard box type, in flight selected transponder operates, on ground selected transponder operateds only in mode S.

[Harry Burns]

The only thing I agree is to look in your FCOM. Additionally, you might need more information from your Xponder supplier.

Depending on your manufactor, you might need to put it to ON. AUTO makes your xponder go silent as soon as you are WonW (i.e. on the ground). These are the more older versions.

Maybe you have different types of xponders in your fleet? Check your friendly AI representative, he may assist your company in transforming your fleet with uniform cockpit facilities (depending on contract even for free).

Good luck

HB

[Torque2]

The AUTO position is selected once you have your sqwawk code, that gives the mode S to ATC. Before Takeoff the TCAS mode is selected on theTA/TARA switch. On landing the TA/RA switch goes to STNBY. On shutdown on stand the AUTO switch goes to SBY thus switching off the mode S function.

[TyroPicard]

"ATC" is Airbus-speak for "transponder". You should check your FCOM on switch selection to squawk on the ground to comply with AMS request, it will be ON or XPDR depending on fit.
TCAS is not the switch to go for - that works the TCAS which uses the ATC transponder on your a/c, and everyone elses, for collision avoidance.

[Thridle Op Des]

Which is why there is OEB 068/1 for the A330-200, OEB 082/2 for the A330-321X and OEB 082/1 for the A340-500: ATC Set on Standby Mode following a TCAS fault ECAM caution. Airbus don't want the transponder turned off because of a TCAS fault. They are separate though related entities on the same panel.

I believe this came out after the initial investigation into the GOL/Legacy accident, but stand ready to be corrected.

Regards

TOD

[Flyman35]

thanks for all of you,I really understand it clearly now.