Electrical Power Supply Systems
The airplane is equipped with an alternating-current (AC) and a direct-current (DC) electrical power system.
Power for the AC system is supplied by two alternator-type generators.
The DC system normally is powered from the AC system through two transformer-rectifiers.
A 24-volt battery is available for use in an emergency to supply DC power to essential equipment.
Note: All voltages can be checked on the system monitor panel.
During ground operation, AC and DC power can be supplied to the airplane by an external power source. During captive flight, the carrier airplane can supply AC and DC power to the airplane. Both external power sources supply minimum DC power for initial relay or valve operation only. Large amounts of DC power then are supplied from the AC system through the transformer-rectifiers.
The external power receptacle is on the upper surface of the fuselage, aft of the canopy.
When AC and DC external power is applied to the airplane by a ground unit, an adapter must be used. When external power is applied from the carrier airplane, a single plug-in unit in the carrier airplane pylon is used.
External power switch on the service panel.
The (fictitious) service panel, on the center pedestal, provides AC and DC electrical power from an external source to the X-15A-2 SE addon before the APUs can be turned on. This simulates power being supplied to the X-15 from a ground receptacle or from the carrier aircraft. Moving the external power switch [22, figure 5-3] to ON supplies power from an external source to the X-15. Moving the switch to OFF cuts off external power.
Whenever power from an external source is supplied to the X-15, the external power ON (green) light [23, figure 5-3] comes ON.
In this section:
AC Electrical Power Distribution
DC Electrical Power Distribution
Electrical Power Supply Controls
Electrical Power Supply System Indicators