What is an air data computer (ADC) and how does it relate to the Pitot-Static system?

What is an air data computer (ADC) and how does it relate to the Pitot-Static system?

• A. The ADC measures engine performance metrics.
• B. The ADC controls landing gear position.
• C. The ADC processes pitot/static pressures to provide air data (airspeed, altitude, vertical speed) to displays and flight computers.
• D. The ADC stores flight plans for navigation.

Answer: (C)

An air data computer takes the raw pressures from the Pitot-Static system and, using temperature data, converts them into useful air data such as airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed. The Pitot tube provides dynamic pressure while static ports supply ambient pressure; the ADC combines these with temperature information to compute values like indicated and calibrated airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, and often Mach number or true airspeed. These computed data are then sent to cockpit displays and flight computers, supporting both pilot awareness and automated systems like autopilots and flight management. The Pitot-Static system feeds the ADC, so without those pressure inputs the air data couldn’t be produced. The other functions listed—measuring engine performance, controlling landing gear, or storing flight plans—are handled by different subsystems, not the air data computer.

An air data computer takes the raw pressures from the Pitot-Static system and, using temperature data, converts them into useful air data such as airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed. The Pitot tube provides dynamic pressure while static ports supply ambient pressure; the ADC combines these with temperature information to compute values like indicated and calibrated airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, and often Mach number or true airspeed. These computed data are then sent to cockpit displays and flight computers, supporting both pilot awareness and automated systems like autopilots and flight management. The Pitot-Static system feeds the ADC, so without those pressure inputs the air data couldn’t be produced. The other functions listed—measuring engine performance, controlling landing gear, or storing flight plans—are handled by different subsystems, not the air data computer.