April 13th, 2003
This is the BIT panel for the F-15. The panel I'm using is a pre-MSIP1 example. The primary difference between pre and post MSIP BIT panels is the two dual indicator lamps that are missing in the second row and third rows. The BIT panel is utilized by ground and flight crew to test the various major subsystems in the F-15C. The tests are split into two major categories, Hydraulics and Avionics. By selecting the required test with the rotary knob and then pressing the "Initiate" button, the onboard computer will run the selected system through it's default operation tests. In the event of an onboard systems failure, the relevant lamp on the BIT panel will illuminate along with the corresponding indicator on the Master Caution Panel. To use the real F-15 BIT panel in my simulator, I had to totally remove all the old wiring and completely replace it. The image below shows the marked difference between the original and rebuilt panels. As you can see, it was quite a job. The end result was worth the work though. Because of how much the BIT panel does, it took a whole 0/32/32 Phidget to use it. Therefore, I decided to mount the 0/32/32 Phidget close to the panel and use a USB hub to connect it to the main computer. This is what the subassembly looks like. Pretty busy eh? The BIT panel consumes all 32 outputs and 28 of the 32 available inputs. It will be installed right underneath the panel in the left side console. The lamps are powered by the Phidget and are 28VDC operating at 24VDC. 1 Multi Stage Improvement ProgramBack to the Tech Index