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Subelement K: K – Aircraft— Topic 71: Automatic Direction Finding Equipment (ADF) & Transponders

Question 3-71K1

Element 3 (GROL)

What is the frequency range of an aircraft’s Automatic Direction Finding (ADF) equipment?

Explanation
Aircraft Automatic Direction Finding (ADF) equipment operates by tuning into Non-Directional Beacons (NDBs). These NDBs transmit in the Low Frequency (LF) and Medium Frequency (MF) bands. The frequency range of **190 kHz to 1750 kHz** accurately covers the operational spectrum for these beacons, allowing the ADF receiver to determine bearing. Option B uses MHz, indicating much higher VHF/UHF frequencies, which are not used by ADF. Options C and D, specifically 108.00 MHz to 117.95 MHz, define the VHF Omni-directional Range (VOR) and Instrument Landing System (ILS) localizer frequencies. These are separate, distinct VHF navigation systems, not related to ADF operation, which relies on LF/MF transmissions.

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