VOR Test

The use of VOR systems as primary navigation is diminishing on most modern aircraft. GPS and FMS installations provide more reliable and direct routes for flight. The end of VOR use is not in the near future. When used along with DME, VOR systems provide very accurate FMS position computation over land.



Testing of a VOR system is similar to ILS. Both use the HSI deviation bar as indication. Unlike ILS, VOR is referenced to compass input. One of 360 course selections can be dialed in. Each dot represents 5 degrees when the deviation bar is off center. Most RMI's are equipped with VOR/ADF needles. When selected to VOR, these needles will point TO the tuned VOR station.



The standard VOR test box signal is 108.00 MHz. The variable function allows for simulation of all 360 radials. As an example: with the test unit simulating 140 degrees, numerous results should be observed. With the HSI course selected to 140, the deviation bar should be centered and the to/from arrow pointing the direction of the selected course. The GS Indicator should be "biased out of view" and both the VOR/LOC or GS flags should be pulled. The variable knob can be used to move the deviation bar left and right of center. Flipping the to/from switch will cause the to/from arrow in the HSI to point opposite the selected course.

1. Comparison of systems is always recommended on aircraft equipped with dual systems.
2. On most aircraft installations the VOR and LOC antennas are the same component usually located on the tail. Pulling the VOR flag and driving the indication can be difficult without the test box antenna outside a cockpit window.
3. VOR indication is referenced to compass heading. It is not unusual to see a RMI needle split when testing two systems at once. Analog compass systems are rarely matched on the ground. This is not normally seen when IRS’s are the primary compass source.
4. “Walking” the RMI needle around the compass in 30-45 degree increments is a good practice. Bad indications can occur in one compass quadrant while showing good in another.
5. Verification of the HSI course deviation bar in all four compass quadrants is also a good practice.