RHLIM — Runway Heading & Light Intensity Monitor
The Runway Heading and Light Intensity Monitor (RHLIM) is an essential component of automated weather observing systems, providing accurate, real-time monitoring of airfield lighting conditions. It integrates seamlessly with Airport Weather Advisor® (AWA™) to deliver runway lighting status information critical for safe aviation operations, continuously measuring and reporting the operational status of runway edge lights, centerline lights, and active runway heading indicators — enabling air traffic controllers and pilots to make informed landing and takeoff decisions, particularly in reduced visibility.
Key Features
- Monitor up to 8 lighting loops simultaneously (voltage and current sensing)
- Real-time runway heading detection via voltage-level sensing (0V=Inactive, 5V=Active)
- ICAO-compliant reporting integration
- Industrial-grade reliability; remote configuration and diagnostics
- Multi-channel monitoring of runway edge, centerline, and threshold lights; supports LED and incandescent systems
- Dual sensing technology (voltage transducers for control signal monitoring + current transducers for load verification) detects control system failures and individual lamp failures
- Intelligent runway heading detection automatically determines active runway configuration, eliminating manual configuration changes and supporting bidirectional runways
- Advanced self-diagnostics: power supply status, communication health, sensor integrity, battery backup condition
- Seamless AWA integration with plug-and-play installation and automatic configuration discovery
Applications
- ICAO Annex 3 compliant automated weather observing systems
- Category I, II, and III instrument approach airports
- Military airfield weather stations
- Remote and unmanned airport facilities
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MT-RHLIM-01 |
| Lighting Loops Monitored | Up to 8 independent channels |
| Voltage Input Channels | 8 channels (M1–M6 + V7–V8) |
| Current Input Channels | 8 channels (CS1–CS8) |
| Voltage Sensor Range | 0–32 VDC, 0–280 VAC |
| Current Sensor Type | Clamp-on transducers, up to 20A per lighting loop |
| Heading Detection | Voltage or current based (M7–M12, 0V=Inactive, 5V=Active) |
| Communication Interface | RS-232/RS-485/RS-422 and Ethernet |
| Data Update Rate | Configurable (1–60 seconds) |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +70°C |
| Storage Temperature | -15°C to +85°C |
| Relative Humidity | 20% to 90% non-condensing |
| Power Input | 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 50W (<15W typical consumption) |
| Backup Battery | Optional (external 12V) |
| Enclosure | NEMA 3R rated, painted steel, wall-mount, 14"×12"×6" (356×305×152mm) |
| Weight | Approx. 12 lbs (5.4 kg) |
| Compliance | FCC Part 15 Class A, CE |
| Warranty | 2 years standard |
