The Runway Visual Range (RVR) technology developed by Teledyne Controls is the only forward scatter RVR system in the world certified by the FAA for CAT IIIb operations (down to 150 ft or 50 m RVR). This certification was achieved by actual testing under some of the worst operating conditions. The extremely good reliability of the RVR system under extreme weather conditions assures that the system will not be shut down (as is presently the case with some transmissometer systems) when one really needs the RVR information. Each of the RVR sensors is thoroughly factory tested to assure calibration consistency. A laser based Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is used to check the tight tolerances on the various critical dimensions of the sensor fork.

The RVR system has extensive built-in Remote Maintenance Monitoring (RMM) features which allows technicians from a local or remote location to monitor the health of the system as well as run diagnostics to isolate faults to a removable module. The RMM features coupled with the modular nature of the system and easy accessibility to all sub-assemblies assure a very low Mean-Time-to-Repair (under 30 minutes).

The RVR system does not require periodic maintenance on an average more often than once every 90 days. This is achieved by continuously monitoring the contamination on the sensor optics and compensating for it depending upon the type of contaminant. The algorithms for the contamination correction were developed after many months of field and laboratory testing.

Extreme care has been taken in the design of the RVR system to assure that the system is fail-safe and does not output erroneous data. This capability is verified by extensive testing.

A Teledyne Controls RVR System is now installed in well over 180 major airports throughout the United States, and it is projected that additional 120 airports will be equipped with this system in the near future.