Summary
Performance parameters of transponders installed in aircraft were measured to determine their degree of compliance with current specifications. A mobile van was outfitted with electronic test equipment which simulated the transmitter and receiver sections of a ground interrogator and which allowed measurement of transponder parameters. A horn antenna located near the aircraft under test was used to couple signals to and from the transponder. The results of measuremetns on 504 transponders installed in general aviation aircraft, 17 transponders installed in military aircraft, and 28 transponders installed in air carrier aircraft are reported. Of these, 31 general aviation, 2 military, and one air carrier transponders were inoperative. The results of measurements of reply frequency, squitter, delay, Mode C operation, dead time, P2/P1 ratio required for suppression, suppression time, framing pulse spacing, power output and sensitivity are included.