Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to frequently asked questions for navigation databases, data transfer units, FMS (flight management systems), GPS (global position systems), hardware, import and exports, recorders, and more.

Categories

Data Transfer Units

Data Transfer Units

What are the available Universal Avionics Data Transfer Unit (DTU) upgrade options?

The Solid-State Data Transfer Unit (SSDTU) and the Portable SSDTU replace the DTU-100 (P/N 1406-01-X), Portable DTU-100 (P/N 1407-01-X), DTU (P/N 1403-XX-X, 1405-01-X), Portable DTU (P/N 1404-01-X) and the Accessible Data Unit (ADU) (P/N 3060-0X-0X) in all Universal Avionics applications. Please refer to the Universal Avionics Specifications and Pricing Manual, or to the applicable Flight Management System (FMS) Installation Manual to identify the correct Part Number (P/N) for the project.

What should I consider when upgrading my Universal Avionics Data Transfer Unit (DTU)?

The Solid-State Data Transfer Unit (SSDTU) is a direct physical replacement for the DTU or DTU-100. The P2 connector will require replacement if used in the existing installation. The SSDTU is a different Part Number (P/N) than the DTU or DTU-100, and will require certification approval under FAA Form 337 for installation in the aircraft.

Flight Management System

Is my Universal Avionics Flight Management System (FMS) a compatible sensor for my upgraded Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) capable transponder?

The minimum FMS software requirement is Software Control Number (SCN) 1000.5 / 1100.5 and subsequent for the Honeywell transponder, or SCN 1000.7 and subsequent for Rockwell Collins TDR-94 transponder. These FMS SCN versions are found in Universal Avionics  SBAS-FMS product line. For more information, download a copy of Universal Avionics   “Understanding Compliance with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out” white paper .

What Software Control Number (SCN) is my Universal Avionics equipment approved for?

The applicable Aircraft Flight Manual Supplement will identify the FMS Software Control Number (SCN) approved for installation in your aircraft. Contact Universal Avionics Customer Support for additional assistance if required.

What does this message on my Flight Management System (FMS) mean?

Please refer to the Messages section of the applicable FMS Operator’s Manual. Contact Universal Avionics Support team if further assistance is required.

How can I become more familiar with my Flight Management System (FMS)?

As a leading company in the avionics industry, Universal Avionics is committed to ensuring that its training provides immediate and measurable results. The company’s formal classroom training utilizes an iPad simulation of Universal Avionics Flat Panel Control Display Unit (FPCDU) and a computer-based simulation program. Courses are led by Universal Avionics’ qualified and experienced instructors at the Tucson, Arizona Training Centers.

Are Universal Avionics Flight Management Systems (FMS) compatible with external GPS sensors?

The Universal Avionics FMS has been integrated with specific external GPS sensors. Please contact Universal Avionics Support team to verify compatibility.

Why is the Performance Database missing from my Flight Management System (FMS) after receiving it back from repair?

It is important to note that the Performance Database is critical, and use of an incorrect Performance Database in an aircraft could result in improper speed references being displayed to the crew. The FMS Navigation Computer Unit (NCU) RAM is cleared as part of the repair process. Since repair personnel cannot know with certainty that the unit will be installed in the same aircraft, they cannot install a Performance Database. The aircraft operator should maintain a copy of the applicable Performance Database with the aircraft records or loose equipment.

Where can I get a replacement Performance Database for my Flight Management System (FMS)?

Replacement Performance Database disks can be ordered by contacting Universal Avionics  Sales or by calling (520) 295-2300 · (800) 321-5253.

Please consult your FMS Airplane Flight Manual Supplement (AFMS) for the correct Performance Database Part Number (P/N).

How do I load a Performance Database into my Flight Management System (FMS)?

The UA Academy online learning center delivers premiere training on-demand on how to reload a Performance Database into the FMS (following the same procedure as a Navigation Database update.)

Where can I find a return to service test for my Universal Avionics Flight Management System (FMS)?

Return to service testing should be performed in accordance with the Aircraft Maintenance Manual, the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness or the applicable FMS Installation Manual instructions.

Why am I getting an error message on my Flight Management System (FMS) when attempting to load a Navigation Database?

Database error messages are listed in the applicable Universal Avionics FMS Operator’s Manual or Reference Guide.

Global Positioning System

How do I troubleshoot my intermittent or inoperative GPS?

Please contact Universal Avionics Support team and request a copy of “Understanding and Troubleshooting Global Positioning Systems (GPS),” Document No. CS15-0001.

Hardware

I have a broken contact in a connector, what is the Part Number (P/N) of the contact?

Contact Universal Avionics Customer Support with the unit P/N, plug number and pin number. Field Service will research and provide the contact P/N.

Import and Export

Where do I find information about how to ship a product to Universal Avionics from an international location?

For International shipments, please see our  UA_International Shipping Best Practices on how to complete the paperwork process to ensure a smooth customs entry into the US.

Where do I find information on exporting or importing Universal Avionics products?

Please have the Part Number (P/N) available of the product you need to import or export, and contact Universal Avionics at (520) 295-2300 or (800) 321-5253.

Navigation Databases

What procedures are not in the Navigation Database?

Universal Avionics Flight Management Systems (FMS) prior to Software Control Number (SCN) 802.4 is not approved to fly Localizer Circle to Land procedures, Back Course Circle to Land, Localizer Directional Aid (LDA) and SAAAR approach types. Therefore, they are not included in the Navigation Database. SCN 802 and later are approved for Localizer and Back Course Circle to Land procedures, which are included in the Navigation Databases for those software versions.

Why are there Special Procedures?

The FAA develops Special Procedures at airports with challenging terrain or obstacles. Typically, they have greater obstacles and lower minimum descent altitudes than standard approaches that make them worthy of special permission. The LOC DME Rwy 15 (LOC 15) arrival at KASE Aspen, CO for example, has an MDA 1,000 ft. lower than other approaches. Universal Avionics often receives questions about the LOC 15 arrival into Aspen, CO. Its name is similar to a Localizer Circle to Land approach (LOC DME-E) into the same airport – an approach type not supported by the Flight Management System (FMS), and not in the Navigation Database.

How do I get permission to fly a Special Procedure?

Operators should seek permission through their local certification agency. For Special Procedures, contact the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). Certain navigational capabilities must be proven to obtain permission to fly the procedure. Once permission has been granted, the operator will receive the chart from Jeppesen (or other database supplier).

For Private Procedures, operators must contact the owner of the procedure. The permission basis and airport owner can be found online.

Where can I find the release dates for Navigation Databases?

For a list of approximate shipping dates and effective dates for Navigation Database updates, please reference Universal Avionics Navigation Database Update Schedule.

How do I download my Navigation Database?

The PDF documents below describe how to download a navigation database from UniNet onto floppy disks, Zip disk, USB flash drive or SD card media.

Can I download my Navigation Database using a Mac?

Downloading from UniNet is designed to work in a Microsoft Windows® environment. An Apple Mac computer can be used if it is capable of simulating a Windows® environment. Universal Avionics provides instructions on how to download from UniNet using a Windows® computer, but there are no instructions provided for using a Mac computer. Instructions may be found on UniNet.

What is the Navigation Database release schedule and approximate shipping dates?

Click here here to view the Navigation Database release schedule. The approximate shipping dates from Universal Avionics' Tucson office, effective dates and UniNet availibility dates are listed.

How often are new Navigation Databases released?

Updated Navigation Databases are released every 28 calendar days. For a list of approximate shipping dates and effective dates, please reference Universal Avionics Navigation Database Update Schedule.

What are the Navigation Database Regions?

The pdf below shows a world map with the 10 navigation database regions: Africa, Canada, Eastern Europe, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Pacific, South America, South Pacific and United States.

What is available in my Navigation Database?

Universal Avionics’ navigation database contains Instrument Approach Procedures (IAP) that are not published as part of the standard chart set. Conversely, operators may have noticed approach types missing from the database.

Detailed information on what is available in each Navigation Database is listed on our  Navigation Database Information and Order Forms .

How do I load the navigation database into the FMS using SCN 60x/70x (Standard DTU) or SCN 602/702 and earlier (SSDTU)?

Instructions for loading navigation database updates into the FMS are contained in the FMS Operator’s Manual 2423sv602 or 2423sv702, Section IV. The FMS Operator’s Manual is available for download through UniNet, and a copy should be maintained in the aircraft accessible to the crew.

How do I load the navigation database into the FMS using SCN 603/703 or 604/704 (DTU-100 or SSDTU)?

Instructions for loading navigation database updates into the FMS are contained in the applicable FMS Operator’s Manual Section IV (SCN 60X/70X/80X/90X), or the FMS Reference Guide Section 2 (SCN 803/903/1000/1100). These manuals are available for download through UniNet and should also be maintained in the aircraft accessible to the crew.

How do I load the navigation database into the FMS using SCN 801/901 and later (DTU-100 or SSDTU)?

Instructions for loading navigation database updates into the FMS are contained in the applicable FMS Operator’s Manual Section IV (SCN 60X/70X/80X/90X), or the FMS Reference Guide Section 2 (SCN 803/903/1000/1100). These manuals are available for download through UniNet and should also be maintained in the aircraft accessible to the crew.

How do I check Navigation Data stored in active and inactive memory?

Instructions for checking the Navigation Database are contained in the applicable FMS Operator’s Manual Section IV (SCN 60X/70X/80X/90X), or the FMS Reference Guide Section 2 (SCN 803/903/1000/1100). These manuals are available for download through  UniNet and should also be maintained in the aircraft accessible to the crew.

Why does my Flight Management System (FMS) show the old Navigation Database and expiration date after loading the new Navigation Database?

Most FMS Software Control Numbers (SCN) 60X / 70X and later have dual Navigation Database memory locations - to hold current (active) and past / future (inactive) Navigation Databases. If you are loading the Navigation Database that has a future effective date (or a past expiration date), it is loaded into the FMS's "Inactive" memory. The FMS automatically activates this new Navigation Database the first time the FMS is powered on after 0901Z (default configuration) on the effective date.

Why wasn’t there a "CHECK ALL" prompt after loading my Navigation Database?

The "Check All" prompt will only appear if the new Navigation Database is being loaded into the "ACTIVE MEMORY." This occurs only if the current date is within the Navigation Database's 28 day effective period. If you load the Navigation Database before its effective date, it is loaded into "INACTIVE" memory. When you are done loading, the FMS will prompt for "Load Next" and "Return.”

What are the FMS Software Differences from SCN 601/701 through SCN 1000/1100?

The pdf below describes differences the operator would see between versions of FMS software.

Are there Waypoint Naming Conventions?

Descriptions of the ARINC 424 Waypoint Naming Conventions are contained in the applicable FMS Operator’s Manual Section IV (SCN 60X/70X/80X/90X), or the FMS Reference Guide Section 2 (SCN 803/903/1000/1100). These manuals are available for download through UniNet.

How do I make a payment on my Navigation Database account?

Contact Universal Avionics Navigation Database Administration during regular business hours to pay an open invoice. Please call (520) 295-2300 · (800) 321-5253.

You may pay by check, wire transfer, or credit card. The pdf below includes banking instructions for each payment option.

How do I change my Navigation Database subscription?

Please contact Universal Avionics Navigation Database Administration during regular business hours to change your subscription at (520) 295-2300 · (800) 321-5253.

I see a procedure in the database that I don’t have a standard published chart for. Why is this?

When entering your destination in the flight plan (via MENU / ARRIVE), operators might notice a procedure for which there is no standard published chart. There are two reasons this can occur: 1) In the U.S., it is an FAA designated “Special Procedure,” or in Canada, it is a NAV CANADA-designated Restricted Canada Air Pilot “RCAP,” 2) It is a Private Approach designed by a company or individual to a certain location. Both of these types of procedures are not publicly available, but are included in Universal Avionics Navigation Database. These procedures may be flown only if the aircraft operator has been issued the chart and has authorization.

Why am I getting an error message on my Flight Management System (FMS) when attempting to load a Navigation Database?

Database error messages are listed in the applicable Universal Avionics FMS Operator’s Manual or Reference Guide.

How do I update my Navigation Database account?

Please call Universal Avionics Navigation Database Administration during regular business hours to update your account information: (520) 295-2300 · (800) 321-5253.

Recorders

What equipment do I need to download the voice data from my Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)?

Universal Avionics Firefly ground tool (P/N A12039 or A12039-1) is a PC-based ground tool that is used to interrogate and download information from the Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorders (CVR/FDR) that can be used for status or assist with troubleshooting.

Why won’t my Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) download via Firefly when installed in the aircraft?

Per the requirements established in FAA TSO-C123b Minimum Operations Performance Standards (MOPS), the recorder must be removed from the aircraft for audio downloading. Non-audio downloading (UTC, rotor speed, data link, etc.) can be completed while the recorder is installed on the aircraft, provided the recorder is in the STOPPED state. Consult the applicable Installation Manual found on UniNet for further information.

How do I get a copy of Firefly?

Kit Number P12073 contains Part Number (P/N) A12039 – PC Based Test Application on CD ROM and P/N A12039-1 – PC Based Test Application on USB. The purchase price value is listed at $1,000.00 USD. Please contact Universal Avionics  Sales if you would like to place an order.

Satcom System

Where can I get support for my Universal Avionics Satcom system?

Universal Avionics no longer supports the TT-3000 and TT-5000 Satcom systems. Symetrics Industries now provides technical, parts and repair services for those systems. They may be contacted at (888) 327-7994 (US/Canada), +0-321-473-0122 (International), or  [online].

Software Control Number

What does SCN mean?

Software Control Number.

What is the Software Control Number (SCN) of my Universal Avionics equipment?

The SCN will be visible on the initialization page of the Control Display Unit (CDU), in the lower right hand corner of the display. You may also access this by selecting “DATA”, “MAINT” (LSK 5R), S/W VERS (LSK 5L). It is also marked on the data plate of the Navigation Computer Unit (NCU).

Can I upgrade the Software Control Number (SCN) of my Universal Avionics equipment?

Yes, depending on a couple of items that need to be checked before the upgrade can be done. First, you must consider how the Flight Manual Supplement is written in regards to the operating software that has been approved for the aircraft. SCN upgrades right of the decimal point are considered minor alterations by the FAA. Changes left of the decimal point are considered a major alteration and may require recertification of the installation.

What Software Control Number (SCN) is my Universal Avionics equipment approved for?

The applicable Aircraft Flight Manual Supplement will identify the FMS Software Control Number (SCN) approved for installation in your aircraft. Contact Universal Avionics Customer Support for additional assistance if required.

Supplemental Type Certificates

What Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) are available for Universal Avionics equipment?

Technical Publications

Where do I find Universal Avionics Technical and Operator’s Manuals?

All Universal Avionics manuals are located on  UniNet. Select the “UniNet” tab and “Log in,” or “register” for new users. Once logged into UniNet, select the “TECH PUBS” tab, then select “Manuals.” Use the dropdown menu to select the category of the manual and the subcategory. A list of applicable manuals will be displayed.

What should I do if I find an error in a Universal Avionics Technical Manual?

Complete the feedback form in UniNet to report an error to our Technical Publications department.

Terrain Awareness and Warning System and Vision-1

How often do I need to update the Terrain Database in my Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) or Vision-1® equipment? 

UniLink®

Is Universal Avionics UniLink® UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) compliant with Link 2000+?

The Universal Avionics UniLink UL-800/801 CMU must use Software Control Number (SCN) 31.0 or later to be compliant with Link 2000+.

Can I use the Universal Avionics UniLink® UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) for Future Air Navigation System (FANS)?

Universal Avionics offers two data link CMUs that are capable of meeting FANS 1/A requirements; the UniLink UL-800 which uses an external VHF Data Radio (VDR), and the UniLink UL-801 which includes an internal VDR.

How do I access Universal online flight planning services and weather information?

Universal Avionics manufactures the UniLink® UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU), but does not offer online flight planning and weather graphics services. Please contact Universal Weather and Aviation for more information on the services they offer.

UniNet

How do I get access to UniNet?

To access UniNet, register for a new account today at secure.uasc.com/uninet.

What should I do if I do not remember my UniNet login information and cannot log in to my account?

If you are unable to login to your UniNet account or have forgotten your Username please contact Universal Avionics Customer Support at (520) 573-7627 or (800) 595-5906.

If you have forgotten your password please visit the UniNet login page, https://secure.uasc.com/uninet/login.aspx, and click on the "Forgot Password?" link.