Communications Consoles
Radio is the primary means of communications with aircraft both in the air and on the
ground. Different radio frequencies are established for particular types of operation. For
example, most Navy towers have the 340.2 MHz, 360.2 MHz, 134.1 MHz, and 126.2
MHz frequencies assigned specifically for airport traffic control purposes. But different
operating positions within the same facility may have to share the same frequency for a
particular aircraft due to operational necessity or an emergency.
A single-pilot IFR aircraft, for example, should be provided a single-frequency approach
(SFA) to the maximum extent that communications traffic conditions permit. In this case,
the RADAR facility and the control tower may find it necessary to share the same
frequency sometime during an aircraft s approach. Operational requirements at some
airfields may dictate that the frequency control authority establish additional frequencies
for air traffic control.
Additionally, interfacility communications may be necessary for coordinating different
operating positions where physical contact between controllers is not possible. To
provide you with this capability, communications consoles allow you to select
frequencies and intercommunication modes between your position and other operating
positions.
Integrated Voice Communication Switching System
Integrated Voice Communication Switching System (IVCSS) is a digital non-blocking
480-channel microprocessor-controlled ATC communications switching network.
Operators have access to multiple radiophone, interphone, and landline channels in any
combination as programmed by their supervisors. Other software features include
manual ring capability, instructor mode, call forwarding, call transfer, remote door
release, speed dialing, split operation, and access to multiple conference nets.
Operator positions have a conventional pushbutton design with a dual-tone multi-
frequency (DTMF) keypad that replaces the conventional dial unit. All position
equipment is modular in design, and split operation speaker modules are optional for all
operator positions.
IVCSS Supervisor and Maintenance Positions
Supervisor and maintenance positions do not have conventional pushbuttons. Instead
these positions have an interactive touch screen with menu-driven access to all
radiophone, interphone, and landline channels. In addition to menu-driven touch
screens, these positions have an interactive terminal and computer keyboard that gives
access to the system's configuration control, diagnostic, and traffic data collection
menus. From these terminals, the supervisor or maintenance technician can assign or
change position capabilities and features, check diagnostic alarms, or view historical
use data for a particular channel or position during the last 24 hours.
All positions have common speaker modules, jack boxes, footswitches, and handsets or
headsets.
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