ACARS Question

[MiCon]

Are frequencies dedicated to ACARS use only, or can voice transmissions be used on the same frequencies as ACARS?

 

[majoco]

ACARS is text only.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_Dependent_Surveillance–Broadcast

 

[andy51edge]

Are frequencies dedicated to ACARS use only, or can voice transmissions be used on the same frequencies as ACARS?

In general there is only data on the freqs allocated for ACARS/VDL2. I'm not aware of any exceptions to the rule (but I stand to be corrected).

 

[xms3200]

131.550 is for ACARS, for CPDLC, 136.650. 136.70, 136.80 are used.

 

[MiCon]

In general there is only data on the freqs allocated for ACARS/VDL2. I'm not aware of any exceptions to the rule (but I stand to be corrected).

Thanks. Basically, that's what I was wondering: If a frequency is used by ACARS, can it also be used for voice.

So, I'm guessing that there are certain VHF-Air frequencies that are nationally dedicated to ACARS?

 

[andy51edge]

So, I'm guessing that there are certain VHF-Air frequencies that are nationally dedicated to ACARS?

You're correct.

Signal id wiki has a decent list of freqs here and here

There are several freqs dedicated to ACARS across the country. There are some that are allocated to ACARS in a region. If your scanner lands on it, you'll know. It's a very shrill screeching sound (sample found on the info box). If you observe that data sound on a particular frequency in your area, odds are it will never be used for voice in your area.

 

[ind224]

Any frequency in the aero bands VHF and UHF are coordinated through an FAA group called Spectrum. They make sure no freqs are interfered with (like a local ATIS or AWOS cannot be on a local Unicom or ATC freq or a CB op getting into third harmonics.)
After all that an AC emergency (or terrestrial like 9/11 involving AC) would be the only legitimate reason to hear a voice on an ACARS freq. If you do hear a voice on an ACARS I'd suspect a CBer or FM overload and would report it.

 

[K3HY]

You're correct.

Signal id wiki has a decent list of freqs here and here

There are several freqs dedicated to ACARS across the country. There are some that are allocated to ACARS in a region. If your scanner lands on it, you'll know. It's a very shrill screeching sound (sample found on the info box). If you observe that data sound on a particular frequency in your area, odds are it will never be used for voice in your area.

Almost like a 'what the heck it that...a dial-up modem' LOL

 

[serial14]

I'm not aware of a nation wide standard for ACARS frequencies. but there are a couple top / common ones you'll see and mentioned above. ACARS frequencies are typically found in the higher portion of the VHF Aviation band.

Depending on density, there can be several actively used ACARS frequencies in an area.

 

[MiCon]

Okay, got it. I'm familiar with the ACARS data bursts, just wasn't sure what the frequency set-up and usage was.

You've answered my basic inquiry, and I appreciate the responses.

Thanks,
<>< Mike