Originally Posted by
Trip7
IMO there is no need to switch out of auto. Severe threats will be clearly shown. Within 80 miles, the radar cuts out much of the "scary mode" returns. If possible, I try to stay in the black for smooth rides
Gotta disagree. I don’t mean this as a challenge at all, but If one understands how to manipulate the radar, a TON of additional information and SA can be gained. Simply understanding the 60:1 rule will give you an idea of tops/returns at an altitude just by using the tilt and doing the math. (-1* tilt at 80 miles = 8000 feet below you) It’s just one tool in the box, but the auto mode can often show irrelevant ‘cells’ similar-looking to legitimate threats, especially at range.
Originally Posted by
bender
I spent 15 years flying around in airliners with manual tilt radar and I have to say, I'll take "scary" mode every day of the week and twice on Sundays!
20 years of military use of radar also gives a level of comfort an understanding with instances to use manual modes. There is some decent info in the FCTM about wx/turbulence/radar, and used to me more in the Vol2