Sector Scan

While conducting an analysis of a potential weather threat, and desiring a faster scan rate and a focus on a particular sector ahead of the aircraft, the radar system can be set to display a smaller sector. The 10 inch antenna normally scans a 90° arc ahead of the aircraft, while systems with larger antennas normally scan a 120° arc ahead of the aircraft. The system can be set to scan a 90, 60, 40, or 20 degree sector by use of the Sector Scan selector button. Figure 18 shows an MFD with two panes. The pane on the right is in Sector Scan mode to explore the return brought to the pilot’s attention by the NEXRAD display shown in the left side pane. The Bearing Line control is used to center the desired sector.

KEY POINT: Always return the Sector Scan mode to FULL when done exploring the sector returns.

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