Chapter 14

Aircraft Warning
Lights
 Chapter 14 [AIRCRAFT WARNING LIGHTS]

14.1. Introduction
Aircraft warning lights are the lights which warn the aircraft leader for day /
night lighting about extensive obstacles, such as chimneys, buildings,
telecommunication towers or any tall objects.

14.2. Warning light devices configuration

Configuration diagrams shown below are an example of night-time signaling
according to the total height of the obstacle.

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14.3. The main components of aircraft warning lights

1- Obstruction lights
2- Control board
3-photoelectric switch

14.3.1. Obstruction lights:

A) Low intensity, unidirectional, fixed red obstruction light:

Ø The low intensity fixed red obstruction light is available in two
configurations: single and double.

Ø The bulb: There are two types of these bulbs:

i) Led array which is powered at constant current by an electronic regulator.
ii) Fluorescent lamp: It's powered by electronic ballast integrated in the bulb.

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B) Medium intensity, Unidirectional, flashing red obstruction light:

Ø The medium intensity fixed red obstruction light is available in two
configurations: single and double.

Ø The bulb: There are two types of these bulbs:

i) Xenon discharge lamp: This is powered by an electronic circuit.
ii) In double bulb devices; each bulb is powered by its own electronic circuit.

· Multiple light units are used to achieve a horizontal coverage

of 360 degrees.

Ø Also, the medium intensity, 120 degree horizontal beam,

flashing white obstruction light is available in single
configuration
Multiple light units are used to achieve a horizontal coverage
of 360 degrees.

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14.3.2. Control board:

Control boards operate the whole system, whatever the number of
obstruction lights. The board has a protected power supply to obstruction
lights and photoelectric switch.
The board has the following functions:
1- Electronic conversion from locally available mains to the operating
voltage (The requested AC-DC, DC-DC, DC-AC converter is installed inside the
control board).
2- Automatic check of the bulb status, switching of the stand-by bulb.
3- Generation of visual alarms (front panel pilot lamps) and remote
transmission of URGENT and NON URGENT alarms.
4- Easy checking procedure of the whole system by means of front panel
switches and buttons accessible to the operator.

14.3.3. Photoelectric switch:

This device is installed outdoors near the control board to determine the
operating mode of the system (night/day). It has a photoelectric threshold
adjustable between 2 and 200 lux, factory set at 20 lux.

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