Three Critical Steps for Successful Implementation
AWOS: Three Critical Steps for Successful Implementation
Site Survey
A proper site survey needs to be accomplished to determine the appropriate
location for siting the new AWOS system. To do the site survey correctly you
must familiarize yourself with FAA
Order 6560.20 (latest revision), Siting Criteria for Automated Weather Observing
Systems (AWOS). The location selected must meet the required criteria for
FAA approval. The site must
be surveyed to record latitude, longitude and site elevation. If UHF is utilized
in lieu of landline for data transmission, latitude and longitude are required
of both UHF radio locations.
FAA Form 7460-1, Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration
Information obtained from the site survey will be utilized to fill out the
7460 form. The 7460 may be completed and submitted by the customer or your
AWOS project manager may assist you. It is important to submit the 7460 as
soon as possible. Experience has shown that it takes 2-3 months to obtain
FAA approval of the your
site location. Site preparation SHOULD NOT commence until approval
of the 7460 or you risk moving the site if disapproved.
FCC Application for VHF/UHF licenses
Application for FCC licenses should be initiated as soon as possible after
receipt of the approved FAA
Form 7460-1. Application cannot be made until you have an approved 7460 in
hand. Application is made on-line by going to http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls/.
Application may be made by the customer or AWI (for a nominal fee). Please
note that frequency assignments take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. AWI has
NO control over the process. Your new AWOS CANNOT be commissioned
and broadcasting until the VHF frequency is assigned and the system approved
by the FAA. Note: Some regions/sectors
of the FAA will not allow
commissioning until both the VHF and UHF frequencies have been approved and
issued by the FCC.
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