During an ELT test, which method monitors the signal output?

During an ELT test, which method monitors the signal output?

• A. Tuning a communications receiver to 121.5 MHz
• B. Measuring the aircraft's airspeed on the standby gauge
• C. Observing the GPS satellite signal strength
• D. Using a barometer to measure altitude

Answer: (A)

The test focuses on confirming that the ELT is actually transmitting by listening for its signal on the distress frequency. Tuning a communications receiver to 121.5 MHz lets you hear the beacon’s output directly, so you can verify that the ELT is radiating. The other options don’t involve the beacon’s RF output: airspeed on the standby gauge relates to flight instruments, GPS signal strength pertains to satellite reception, and a barometer measures altitude. Therefore, listening to 121.5 MHz is the right way to monitor the ELT signal output.

The test focuses on confirming that the ELT is actually transmitting by listening for its signal on the distress frequency. Tuning a communications receiver to 121.5 MHz lets you hear the beacon’s output directly, so you can verify that the ELT is radiating. The other options don’t involve the beacon’s RF output: airspeed on the standby gauge relates to flight instruments, GPS signal strength pertains to satellite reception, and a barometer measures altitude. Therefore, listening to 121.5 MHz is the right way to monitor the ELT signal output.