What principle does DME operate on?

What principle does DME operate on?

• A. Time delay between signals
• B. Frequency modulation
• C. Direct line of sight transmission
• D. Radar pulse alteration

Answer: (A)

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) operates on the principle of measuring the time delay between transmitted and received signals. When an aircraft's DME unit sends out a signal to the ground station, the station responds, and the DME unit measures how long it takes for the signal to travel to the ground and back. Since the speed of radio waves is known, this time delay can be converted into a distance, helping the pilot determine how far they are from the ground station. This principle is fundamental to the functioning of DME and is essential for providing accurate distance information, which is critical for navigation, especially during approaches and landings. The accurate distance helps pilots maintain proper separation from the terrain and other aircraft.

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) operates on the principle of measuring the time delay between transmitted and received signals. When an aircraft's DME unit sends out a signal to the ground station, the station responds, and the DME unit measures how long it takes for the signal to travel to the ground and back. Since the speed of radio waves is known, this time delay can be converted into a distance, helping the pilot determine how far they are from the ground station.

This principle is fundamental to the functioning of DME and is essential for providing accurate distance information, which is critical for navigation, especially during approaches and landings. The accurate distance helps pilots maintain proper separation from the terrain and other aircraft.