BT100A (WS Technologies) Features and Specifications *
The WS Technologies BT100A is an advanced beacon tester designed for precise measurement and decoding across a variety of beacon types, with a strong focus on 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz transmitters. This professional-grade device is essential for those involved in the testing and maintenance of emergency locator transmitters (ELTs), personal locator beacons (PLBs), and similar devices. With its ability to decode Cospas-Sarsat protocols and measure critical parameters like frequency stability and power, the BT100A is indispensable for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of distress signaling equipment. One of the BT100A's standout capabilities is its accurate measurement of all Cospas-Sarsat frequency channels. This includes not just basic frequency measurements but also the detailed decoding of Cospas-Sarsat protocols, essential for interpreting unique identification numbers (UIN) and full HEX codes transmitted by beacons. This precision in decoding makes the BT100A a reliable tool for verifying and certifying beacon devices.
The BT100A also excels in frequency measurement and stability analysis. It offers both internal and external reference options, providing a frequency resolution of 100 Hz with an accuracy of ±100 Hz using the internal reference. The external reference further enhances precision, delivering a frequency resolution as fine as 1 Hz with an accuracy of ±1 Hz. This level of accuracy makes the BT100A ideal for applications demanding high standards of frequency stability, such as beacon calibration and scenarios where beacon reliability is critical. Beyond its 406 MHz capabilities, the WTS BT100A is also proficient in measuring the 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz frequencies, which are commonly used for homing signals in emergency beacons. It provides detailed measurements of peak power, sweep direction, audio frequency, and sweep range, all with impressive accuracy. Additionally, this beacon tester can decode Morse code and monitor real-time audio transmissions, making it highly versatile in operational environments. The device is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to both experienced professionals and those new to beacon testing. It features a Personal Data Assistant (PDA) that graphically displays key parameters like power during bursts and phase modulation, simplifying the interpretation of complex data. The BT100A also offers customizable settings, such as user-defined cable loss factors at each frequency, enhancing its flexibility and usability across different testing scenarios. Portability and durability are also key features of the BT100A beacon tester. It is compact, lightweight, and available with a ruggedized PDA option for use in harsh environments. The included hard case ensures that the device and its accessories are well-protected during transport and storage, making the BT100A a reliable choice for field operations.
The WS Technologies BT100A offers a range of technical specifications that underscore its precision and reliability. It provides accurate 406 MHz frequency measurements with an internal reference accuracy of ±100 Hz and an external reference accuracy of ±1 Hz. The device also delivers similar precision for 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz frequency measurements, with an accuracy of ±30 Hz using the external reference. Its power measurement capabilities are equally impressive, offering a precision of ±1 dB for 406 MHz signals and ±1.5 dB for 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz signals. This tester features precise modulation measurements, including phase modulation accuracy of ±0.04 rad, modulation rise and fall times within ±10 μs, and modulation bit rate accuracy of ±0.2 bps. The device supports a wide RF input range, with a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) of 1.10:1 for 406 MHz and 1.15:1 for 10 MHz reference inputs, further highlighting its capabilities for detailed beacon analysis. The WS Technologies BT100A is highly versatile and suitable for various applications, particularly in environments where the integrity and performance of emergency beacons are critical. It is an ideal tool for manufacturers of ELTs, PLBs, and other beacons, providing the necessary accuracy to ensure that products meet international standards and regulations. For organizations responsible for beacon maintenance and testing, such as those in aviation or maritime sectors, this device offers the precision and reliability needed to certify that beacons are functioning correctly. Additionally, the device plays a crucial role in helping organizations comply with regulatory requirements for beacon performance and certification, especially those related to the Cospas-Sarsat system.
The WST BT100A is a versatile and highly accurate beacon tester that meets the stringent demands of professionals in emergency beacon testing. Its comprehensive measurement capabilities, user-friendly interface, and durable design make it a premier tool for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of beacons used in critical safety applications. Whether for manufacturing, maintenance, or regulatory compliance, the WS Technologies BT100A provides the precision and functionality necessary to uphold the highest standards of beacon performance, making it an indispensable device for anyone involved in the testing and certification of emergency locator transmitters and related beacons.
The WS Technologies BT100A price and features make it a very attractive option comparing to similar beacon testers available on the market.