PU-26E

Mode selection through the PU-26E panel

The PU-26E allows the crew to switch the heading system between its main operating modes. In gyro heading mode, the system uses the gyro unit as the main heading reference. In magnetic correction mode, the gyro heading is corrected by the magnetic channel through the induction detector and correction mechanism. The panel provides fixed switching positions for these modes, so the crew can select the required logic for the flight conditions. Unlike some base versions of the PU-26 family, the PU-26E export configuration does not include the astro-correction mode.

Course synchronization using PU-26E

The panel includes a control for fast course synchronization. In magnetic correction mode, pressing the synchronization control activates the matching system and allows the heading system to remove the difference between the gyro heading and the magnetic channel. This function is used when the crew or maintenance personnel need the system to bring the gyro reference into agreement more quickly than during normal slow correction. The synchronization lamp on the front panel indicates the matching process and goes out when the system is ready for normal operation.

Latitude correction on the PU-26E panel

The PU-26E includes a latitude correction setting. This is needed because a free gyro has apparent drift caused by Earth rotation, and the correction depends on the geographic latitude of flight. The crew sets the current latitude by the scale and control on the panel. The correction signal is then used by the heading system to reduce gyro drift in operation. If the latitude setting is wrong, the gyro heading may drift faster than expected, especially during longer operation in gyro heading mode. For this reason, the latitude scale is not just an auxiliary marking; it is part of the heading system adjustment.

Adjustment elements inside the PU-26E

The PU-26E also contains adjustment elements used to compensate technical drift of the gyro system. These balancing potentiometers are located on the inner or rear side of the panel near the connector area, depending on execution. They are not controls for routine pilot use. They are adjusted during maintenance or system setup according to the technical documentation. Incorrect adjustment can affect drift compensation and heading stability, so these elements should be handled only as part of an approved GMK-1AE adjustment procedure.

Installation and cockpit use of PU-26E

The PU-26E is usually mounted on the right or central cockpit console, where the crew can reach the mode switch, synchronization button, latitude setting control and observe the readiness / synchronization indication. The panel is compact, but it is a functional control center for the heading system. During maintenance, technicians check the condition of the switches, lamp indication, panel lighting, connector, latitude setting mechanism and signal response in the connected system. The panel should be tested together with the AS-1, GA-6, ID-3 and KM-8, not only as a separate box.

Supply and identification of PU-26E

When ordering the PU-26E, it is important to specify the full designation and confirm that the requirement is for the export GMK-1AE version. The drawing or passport reference 6Zh3.624.002-2 should be used where applicable. Similar PU-26-family panels may differ in mode positions, markings, connector layout, lighting and compatibility with the installed heading system. For aircraft supply, the condition, passport, label, test status and compatibility with the aircraft wiring diagram should be checked before installation.