 |
The data block shown at
left indicates the aircraft callsign (N6098V), the
transponder-reported altitude (011 - 1,100 feet) and the
computer-determined ground speed (120 - 120 knots). The
information contained in the bottom half of the data
block timeshares, meaning flight plan and tracking data
are alternately displayed in the data block. Look below
to see what is displayed in the second half of the
timeshare. The letter "A" next to the speed is an indication to the controller that the aircraft is on a VFR flight. The "splat" or asterisk to the right of the callsign indicates that low-altitude alerting functions for this aircraft are suppressed. In the upper left corner of the picture is a limited data block. When a controller no longer needs the information contained in a full data block, it can be reduced to a limited data block which then timeshares certain key information - in this case aircraft altitude (026 - 2,600 feet) and the fact the flight is being conducted VFR (as indicated by the letter A). |
 |
The data block shown at
left again indicates the aircraft callsign (N6098V), but
the bottom line (timesharing) now shows aircraft
destination or intentions (in this case landing at
Oakland) and the type of aircraft (here a C172 - Cessna
Skyhawk). The "splat" or asterisk to the right
of the callsign still indicates that low-altitude
alerting functions for this aircraft are suppressed. Notice the letter "A" to the left of the data block. This is a control symbol, indicating which ARTS position has control over the data block (and hence is most-likely talking to the pilot). In this case, the letter "A" indicates the Oakland North Tower - Local 2 position. This aircraft is about to turn downwind for runway 27, and is just approaching the Oakland Coliseum (diamond shape). The square shape to the right side of the picture is Lake Chabot, and the square shape at the top of the picture is the Mormon Temple. You can also see the North Field runways depicted on the scope. The "+" symbol over runway 27R is a primary target. Below is a list of common data block symbology. |