Figure 5-11 -- Air traffic activity analyzer main window.
Portable Traffic Control Light
The portable traffic control light is sometimes used to control the movement of
personnel and vehicles on the landing area as well as the landings and takeoffs of
aircraft experiencing radio difficulties or not equipped with a radio. It is a directive light
that emits an intense, narrow beam. Signals from the light can be clearly seen by the
pilot of an aircraft visible to the tower operator.
Portable Traffic Control Light Operation
The most common portable traffic control light has a mica composition case, a reflector
mounted inside at the back, a mechanism for choosing three different colored lights,
and a socket for a light bulb. The light selector consists of two filters--one red and one
green--mounted vertically on two arms that extend into a horizontal position from the
front to the back. These arms are connected to the light selector handle underneath the
case, thus enabling you to select the appropriate color. Also, the selector handles aid in
aiming the light. Turning the handle fully clockwise puts the red filter in place, giving a
red light; turning the handle fully counterclockwise puts the green filter in place, giving a
green light.
The intermediate position, in which neither filter is in place (both at the side of the case),
produces the clear or white light. The switch that controls the light is in a pistol-type grip
located toward the rear of the light, underneath the case. It has a spring-loaded toggle
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