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Frequently asked questions

  • How do I change my script?
    The customer provides the script to Heads Up and it is entered into our system. A faxed or emailed copy of this script will be sent to the customer for final approval. Once approved, recording sessions will be arranged by Heads Up. Approximately two English language sessions are scheduled per month, and other languages are scheduled as necessary. Please contact us for any additional information or for any special requests.
  • Will the PBS600 continue reprogramming if power is interrupted?
    No. If there is a power interruption during reprogramming, the PBS600 should be powered down, PCMCIA programming card reinserted, and programming procedures repeated from the beginning.
  • I just reprogrammed the PBS600. Why don’t I hear any briefings when they are playing?
    The default volume setting for PBS600 briefings after reprogramming is zero. To change the volume, select a message group and play a briefing. As the briefing plays, use the volume buttons to adjust the briefing level to your desired setting. This procedure must be repeated for each message group.
  • Can I reprogram the PBS600 “in the field”?
    Yes. The PBS600 is programmable via a PCMCIA flash card (ATA format), containing our proprietary script file. For more information on obtaining this file, refer to our Programming and Scripting Services Manual or contact scripts@heads-up.com.
  • Can we do our own recordings?
    Yes. Professional quality recordings can be performed at local recording studios. Heads Up can then process the audio files. (MP3 or WAV formats.) Contact scripts@heads-up.com for more information.
  • Can the message be female or male?
    Yes, Heads Up can offer professional female and male voice talents. Translation and recording services are available in most languages. Listen to sample English audio files utilizing male and female voice talents.
  • Can I play the script CD that Heads Up sent to me from a regular CD player?
    No. The script files on the CD are not recognized by a regular CD player. The PBS 250/400 products use a proprietary compression method.
  • What software is utilized to program the PBS250/PBS400?
    Software will be included with the script and utilizes a Windows PC. Please notify scripts@heads-up.com of your operating system so we may provide you with the appropriate software version.
  • Can I utilize my laptop to reprogram the PBS250 and PBS400 passenger briefing systems?
    Yes. The PBS250 and PBS400 are field programmable via a laptop/PC running Windows. Please refer to the Programming and Scripting Services Manual for more information, or contact scripts@heads-up.com.
  • Do I have to return my cartridge?
    New CMS400 units ship with a test cartridge. Once the script is prepared, a second cartridge is shipped. The test cartridges can be utilized for script changes after installation.
  • Where is the data cartridge?
    The data cartridge (part number DSC20) is installed in the back of the CMS400. Changing or updating scripts is easily accomplished by switching cartridges.
  • How do I change my checklist?
    The customer provides the checklist to Heads Up and it is entered into our system. A faxed or emailed copy of this checklist will be sent to the customer for final approval. Once approved, recording sessions will be arranged by Heads Up. Approximately two English language sessions are scheduled per month, and other languages are scheduled as necessary. Please contact us for any additional information or for any special requests.
  • Can the checklist be supported in languages other than English?
    Yes, but the CMS400 display only supports English characters. Voice recordings can be accomplished in any language.
  • Can I change the ‘Challenge and Response’ or ‘Challenge Only’ default setting in the field?
    The default programmed into the script can only be changed by Heads Up. However, it is possible to change the behavior by holding the EXIT key at power-up. The unit will go back to its default setting at the next power-up.
  • Can the checklist be in a female or male voice?
    Yes, Heads Up can offer professional female and male voice talents. Translation and recording services are available in most languages. Listen to sample English audio files utilizing male and female voice talents.
  • Can the unit speak both Challenge and Response?
    Yes, the unit can be defaulted to speak Challenge only, or Challenge and Response, based upon the script.
  • On the CMS400, what is the function of the JUMP button?"
    The JUMP button is used to quickly reach a preprogrammed checklist. For instance, if you would like to have quick access to your ‘Approach’ checklist, you can set this up as a JUMP item. Then, when the JUMP button is pressed, you will go immediately to your ‘Approach’ checklist.
  • How do I advance to the next procedure?
    If you are at the beginning of a procedure, hitting the ‘EXIT’ button once will take you to the next procedure. When in a checklist, you can hit the EXIT button twice, and it will take you to the next procedure.
  • My signal quality shows >999. What should I do?
    Verify your aircraft has clear view of southern sky, clear of hangers and obstructions. Verify that there is 5V on the “ANT OUT” from the receiver unit. If not, please contact Heads Up at service@heads-up.com.
  • Can you explain the XM “Activation Refresh” Process?
    After months of system inactivity, your XM receiver XM WX weather data service may need an "Activation Refresh" to restore operation. The Refresh signal, sent over the XM satellite system, will re-activate the receiver and restore operation of the XM WX receiver assuming your account is in good standing. The Activation Refresh process can be initiated by calling 1-800-985-9200, or you can perform online at www.xmradio.com/refresh. Once initiated, the activation signal will be immediately broadcast for a 15 minutes only, so it is recommended to have the system powered up and able to receive the XM signal prior to initiating. You will need your XM radio ID (8-character alphanumeric) in order to enable your refresh request. The XM radio ID can generally be obtained via your avionics system display, which varies by partner. Please check your ID carefully. There is no "I" (eye), "o" (oh), "S" or "F" used for XM radio ID's.
  • I am not receiving all weather data, or it takes a long time to update. What should I do?"
    Confirm that the MFD is set to the correct UTC time as prescribed by the MFD manufacturer. If set correctly, monitor signal-quality when reception of data appears slow. Contact Heads Up customer service if issues persist.
  • What is the correct baud rate with my XMD075-01?
    The correct baud rate is 115200bps.
  • My weather receiver is not activating. What should I do?
    Double-check the following steps: Verify the radio ID (8-digit alpha-numeric) used to activate with XM matches the Radio Serial Number on the computing device. Verify the signal quality is “Good Locked”. Verify the cabling. Refer to ICD/wiring diagrams.
  • How do I determine the correct communications port for my XMD075-01?
    From your computer, select START-> SETTINGS->CONTROL PANEL->SYSTEM-> HARDWARE TAB->DEVICE MANAGER BUTTON -> PORTS. The correct communications port is the USB Serial Port (com #).
  • The software, XMLINK screen, is repeating the message ‘Sending Power Up to Radio’. What should I do?"
    Verify that the power wiring to your radio is correct. Confirm that pin 18 is connected to Bus power. Please refer to your ICD/wiring diagrams. Next, verify the communication settings are correct and set the communications port (as addressed in the next question) and baud rate (115200 bps). If the problem continues, contact Heads Up at service@heads-up.com for additional assistance.
  • How do I know if we have power to the system?
    On the receiver, there is a red LED next to the connector J1. If ON, the unit has power.
  • What type of connector is utilized on the antenna?
    The PMA’ed low-profile tear-drop XM antenna utilizes a SMA connector. Comant Industries manufactures this antenna (p/n CI420-1). Product information is available at www.comant.com.
  • I am having trouble refreshing my receiver.
    When performing an on-line 'refresh' at the SiriusXM website, you should receive an 'activation successful' response after submitting the refresh request. If you receive an 'unsuccessful' response, there may be other problems with the account. Please contact XM Listener Care at (800) 985-9200.
  • What is the specification of the XM antenna cable?
    RG-400/U coaxial cable is recommended, with a SMA plug on each end. Verify proper installation by checking Heads Up installation manuals.
  • I occasionally lose signal at altitude or show erratic signal quality. Do I have a bad antenna?
    Possibly, however check the 'ant in' port of the XM receiver for a correct voltage reading of approx 5 Volts. This could also potentially be a result of improper gain. Verify by checking Heads Up installation manuals for XM products, which you can request here.
  • Can one Heads Up receiver provide data to two EFBs?
    Yes, the XMD075-01 can support this capability. Click here for details of this operation.
  • Does Heads Up provide a certified weather receiver for EFB applications?
    Yes, Heads Up offers two options. The XMD075-01 provides interface for USB or RS42 connections, while the XMD076-01 provides interface for RS232.
  • What are the current options for interfacing the XM WX Satellite Weather with my MFD?
    Heads Up technology interfaces with nearly all popular Multi Function Displays. To-date, integration is available for many Rockwell Collins, Honeywell, Aspen, Universal, IS&S and Avidyne systems. Contact your avionics installer for specific installation information.
  • What are my options on radio receivers?
    Heads Up provides 1-, 2-, 4- and 8-receiver units today. In addition, the 4- and 8-receiver versions provide the added flexibility of daisy-chaining the antenna cable to other receivers. As an example, if you want to have a 6-receiver setup, you can install a 4-receiver unit, and simply daisy-chain a two-receiver unit. (The XM WX Satellite Weather receiver also provides the capability to daisy-chain other receivers together.)
  • What is a multi-receiver unit?
    Multi-receiver units are essentially multiple XM radios, all combined into a single LRU. Rather than selecting one channel and having that option distributed through the cabin or cockpit, multi-receiver units allow for simultaneous and independent operation of XM radio channels at the seats.
  • What lengths and types of wash lighting elements are available?
    Multiple lengths are available in order to fit any size cabin. Standard elements are available incrementally in inches from 9" to 36". Warm and cool colors are available.
  • What voltage is required to run the lighting?
    All wash lighting and accent pieces require 28V.
  • Is your product certified?
    Yes, Heads Up has received STC-PMA on our lighting controller and the wash lighting elements. In addition, PMA has been received on a large variety of accent pieces, including reading, dome, table, toekick, cabinet and galley lighting.
  • How big is the controller and how much lighting will one support?
    The controller is roughly 1.3” x 4.0” x 5.5” and weighs a little more than one-half pound. One controller supports up to 50 feet of wash lighting.
  • Is a controller required for the upwash/downwash lighting?
    Yes. The controller provides both over-voltage protection and either full dimming or step dimming capabilities.
  • How many lines does a CMS400 or HUC/G unit hold?
    On average, HUC/G Units handle 300 lines, while the CMS400 accommodates 500 lines.
  • What is the monthly subscription?
    Numerous subscription plans are available starting at $9.99/month. Package details are available here
  • What types of antennas are available?
    Multiple XM-approved antennas are available. Currently, these include the popular low-profile, tear-dropped shaped antenna and a low-speed VHF/COM-XM antenna. In addition, a GPS/XM and a VHF/GPS/XM are available. Please contact Heads Up for any additional information.
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