VIAVI UC-584 Series transponder antenna coupler
VIAVI / UC-584 Series / Transponder Antenna Couplers
UC-584

VIAVI UC-584 Universal Transponder Antenna Coupler

Universal L-Band transponder antenna coupler with clamping grip for the bottom antenna, providing >20 dB isolation for ERP and MTL tests

Frequencies
1030 MHz, 1090 MHz
Return Loss
>7.71 dB
Insertion Loss
0.6 dB ±0.5 dB
Repeatability
<1 dB
Datasheet

Overview

The VIAVI UC-584 Series Transponder Antenna Couplers address reliable FAR Part 43 Appendix 'F' ERP (Effective Radiated Power) and transponder MTL (Minimum Trigger Level) testing in high multi-path ramp and hangar environments. The coupler fits over the aircraft L-Band transponder antenna and includes an integral positioning slot that supports a high level of measurement repeatability.

The couplers provide more than 20 dB of attenuation, which minimizes the chance that airborne TCAS systems and air traffic controllers see transponder altitude replies from the unit under test during testing. They also provide shielding for ADS-B performance testing and UUT parametric tests. Effectiveness depends on the distance of the ADS-B ground station from the test site and on any shielding in the hangar.

The series comprises the UC-584, which uses a clamping mechanism to secure the coupler to the bottom antenna, and the UC-584S, which is placed onto the top antenna from the ground or a ladder using a pole. The couplers can be connected to the VIAVI IFR6000, IFR6015 and APM-424(V)5 flight line test sets, the VIAVI IFF-45TS bench test set, or any suitable transponder test set.

Key Features

  • Reliable FAR Part 43 Appendix 'F' ERP and MTL testing in high multi-path environments
  • Provides >20 dB of antenna isolation for Mode S transponder altitude and diversity tests
  • Provides shielding for ADS-B performance testing UUT parametric tests
  • Reduces interference with air traffic control and nearby aircraft
  • Integral positioning slot for repeatable measurements
  • Dual antenna kit configuration
  • Rugged design for ramp use
  • Fits most 'Shark Fin' L-Band antennas
  • Universal design allows use with any suitable transponder test set
  • Clamping mechanism secures the coupler to the bottom antenna
  • Quick action antenna grip/release action

Specifications

Transponder Antenna Coupler
Frequencies 1030 MHz, 1090 MHz
Return Loss >7.71 dB
at both the antenna under test input and coupler input
Insertion Loss 0.6 dB ±0.5 dB
typical
Repeatability <1 dB
Isolation >20 dB
Connector TNC Female
Physical Characteristics
Dimensions 8.2 in x 5.75 in x 5.25 in (20.9 cm x 14.6 cm 13.3 cm)
Web page lists depth as 8.25 inches (20.9 cm)
Weight 2 lbs (0.9 kg)
Maximum Aircraft Antenna Size Accommodated
Width 3.9 in (9.9 cm)
Thickness 0.325 in (0.825 cm)
Height 2.9 in (7.37 cm)
Web page states max. antenna height is 2.7"

Specifications are taken from the manufacturer's documentation. See the datasheet for complete and current values.

Applications

  • FAR Part 43 Appendix 'F' ERP testing
  • Transponder MTL testing
  • Mode S transponder altitude and diversity tests
  • ADS-B performance testing
  • Ramp and hangar avionics testing

Included

  • UC-584 L-Band Coupler with clamping (87431)
  • Coaxial Cable, 25 ft, TNC-TNC (62462)
  • Soft Case (142158)
  • ID Card (139823 single / 139824 dual)
  • Application Notes (89148)
  • Instruction Sheet (92715)

Options & Accessories

Option Description
90106 Kit, Antenna Coupler Pole, 8 ft. w/ D Ring — Optional accessory
112350 UC-584 Coupler Kit, single antenna — Includes UC-584 L-Band coupler (87431), 25 ft TNC-TNC coaxial cable (62462), soft case (142158), ID card (139823), application notes (89148) and instruction sheet (92715)
112349 UC-584 Coupler Kit, dual antenna — Adds the UC-584S top mount coupler (142094) and a 25 ft right-angle TNC-TNC coaxial cable (141131) to the single kit contents; ID card 139824

Documents & Resources