Optimum setting of Weather Radar's tilt

[fredgrav]

Hi guys,
just to operate the WX radar as optimal as possible, Airbus recommends the following (manual) tilt adjustments:

- Takeoff: 4° UP
- Climb: negative tilt to keep ground returns on top of ND
- Cruise: the following settings to keep ground returns on top of ND ...

• Range 320: 1 DN
• Range 160: 1.5 DN
• Range 80: 3.5 DN
• Range 40: 6 DN

- Descent:

• Above FL150 - Every 10 000 ft: Adjust tilt upward to maintain ground returns on top of ND (~ +1°/10.000 ft)

• Below FL150 - Every 5 000 ft: Adjust tilt upward to maintain ground returns on top of ND (~ +1°/5.000 ft)

- Approach: 4° UP

At that point, I was trying to figure out any WX's logic behind the auto-tilt function ... is there any pre-set schedule or formula used by WX to work the auto-setting out ?

What requirements apply in turning the GCS (Ground Clutter Suppress) ON ? As far as I know it has to be selected ON to avoid unwanted ground returns associated with high negative tilt angles ...

Thanks in advance,
fredgrav

[PantLoad]

Have you read the book?

Please consult the Flight Crew Training Manual....also, the FCOM, Volume two of FCOM 3. In addition, have a look at the Airbus Flight Operations Bulletin regarding the Optimum Use of Weather RADAR.

This should answer most of your questions.

FCOM 1....a systems description of the RADAR may be of help.

Of course, as always, your company's SOPs have priority over anything else.


Fly safe,

PantLoad

[fredgrav]

Hi pantload ...
there's no trace of explanation about the auto-tilt regulation logic on both the FCOM 1 + 3 and "Optimum use of Weather Radar" Briefing Note/Bulletin. Guess it has more to do with some engineering stuff.

Thanks anyway,
fredgrav

[PantLoad]

It's "Multi-Scan"

It's "Multi-Scan". The automatic Ground Clutter Supression is necessary to keep the ground return from constantly being displayed.


Fly safe,


PantLoad

[Centaurus]

Of course, as always, your company's SOPs have priority over anything else.

Obtain the radar manufacturer's Pilot Information Manual. That is where the facts are to be found. The FCOM's often give only basic operating information.
While company SOP's are important, be aware they may not always be in accordance with the aircraft manufacturer's recommendations. SOP's are often based upon the personal opinion of whoever is running the train-set.