The Necto Quick Check

Understand performance before committing to full validation

Modern A-SMGCS systems combine multiple surveillance inputs, where inconsistencies can remain hidden in the overall picture.
A full validation requires dedicated field testing and introduces operational impact. The Necto Quick Check offers a practical first step — delivering initial performance insight using real operational data, without impacting airport operations.
Get a first insight into your system
Get a first insight into your system

Who this is for

Airport operators and A-SMGCS system owners seeking a rapid, non-intrusive assessment of surveillance performance. Particularly relevant for systems in operation where insight is needed without impacting ongoing activities.

WHY THIS QUICK CHECK

Not every situation requires a full validation campaign. The Necto Quick Check provides a focused assessment of surveillance performance by analysing recorded operational data. It offers early insight into how the A-SMGCS and underlying sensors behave under real conditions, helping to identify potential inconsistencies in coverage, tracking stability, and positional accuracy.

Because modern A-SMGCS systems combine multiple surveillance inputs, deviations in individual sensors can be masked at system level. This check helps reveal those underlying behaviours without the need for dedicated test activity. It is a practical way to determine whether performance appears consistent — or whether a more detailed ED-87, ED-116 or ED-117 validation may be justified.

Scope note: 

This is a data-driven assessment based on existing system logs and recorded operational data. The analysis focuses on observed coverage, tracking behaviour, and positional consistency across the surveillance chain.

No dedicated on-site testing is performed, and the full set of ED-standard test cases is not included.

WHAT WE ASSESS

Instead of relying on dedicated test scenarios, we analyse recorded system data to assess the interaction between multilateration (MLAT), surface movement radar (SMR), and the A-SMGCS system track. By comparing these data sources against independent reference data, assessed for quality and consistency, we determine how consistent, stable and reliable the surveillance chain performs under real operational conditions.

Our assessment focuses on three critical aspects:

●Coverage behaviour
Where does the system perform as expected — and where does it not? We identify areas of reduced detection, inconsistencies, and potential blind zones that may not be visible at system level.

●Tracking stability
A smooth track does not necessarily indicate a stable system. We evaluate track behaviour over time, during movement, and across sensor transitions to reveal hidden instability or compensation effects.

●Positional consistency
We assess how well individual sensors and the system track align with each other and with independent reference data, highlighting offsets and deviations that may affect operational reliability.

The Quick Check does not replace full ED validation. It provides a structured, data-driven first assessment of system performance based on operational data, helping to determine whether further, more detailed validation is required.

After gaining an initial understanding through the Necto Quick Check, a full ED-87 validation provides the complete picture. It verifies system performance against defined standards through structured on-site testing, ensuring that your A-SMGCS meets all operational and regulatory requirements.

Proceed to ED-87 validation

How we work

The Quick Check follows a streamlined, data-driven approach without the need for on-site testing.

During the intake, we establish an understanding of the system configuration, operational context, and available data sources. This ensures that the analysis is aligned with how the system is actually used in daily operations.

Based on this, the required data recording is defined. The technical team of the air navigation service provider prepares and captures a dataset that is representative of typical traffic patterns and operational scenarios, ensuring sufficient input for a meaningful assessment. Where needed, guidance is provided on the recording setup to ensure consistency and usability of the data.

Once the dataset is shared, the analysis is carried out remotely by the Necto Aviation team. We assess how MLAT, SMR and system tracking interact, focusing on consistency, stability and overall behaviour across the surveillance chain.

Special attention is given to how the system performs over time and under varying traffic conditions, allowing us to identify patterns that may not be visible during routine operation.

The results are then processed into a structured and clearly interpretable report, translating complex system behaviour into practical insight that supports informed decision-making.

Deliverables

The outcome of the Quick Check is delivered through an interactive online report that provides clear insight into system performance.

The report highlights key aspects such as coverage behaviour, tracking performance, and positional consistency across the surveillance chain. Findings are supported by underlying data, allowing users to explore and understand observed behaviour in context.

Any identified attention points are clearly presented, enabling informed decision-making based on actual system performance.

Timeline and pricing

A typical Quick Check includes approximately one week of preparation, followed by around two weeks for analysis and reporting.

The package includes a structured assessment, an interactive online report and a dedicated online session to review the findings in detail.

The level of effort depends on the size and complexity of the airport environment.

For organisations that prefer an in-person walkthrough, the results can also be presented on site.

A tailored proposal can be prepared based on the local situation and required scope. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Questions about the Necto Quick Check approach?

Explore common questions
Explore common questions

Considering a Quick Check or want to understand what insight it can deliver for your system? Feel free to reach out.

Request your Necto Quick Check
Request your Necto Quick Check
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Frequently asked questions about the Necto Quick Check

Below you will find answers to common questions about the Necto Quick Check, including scope, methodology, and practical application.

What makes the Quick Check different from traditional validation?
The Quick Check focuses on analysing existing operational data rather than executing dedicated test scenarios. It provides insight into how the system behaves in practice, without introducing additional test activity or operational overhead.

What kind of data is required?
A representative recording of normal operations is required, capturing typical traffic and system behaviour across the movement area. The exact requirements are defined during the intake to ensure the dataset supports a meaningful assessment.

How do you ensure the analysis is reliable?
The assessment is based on the comparison and alignment of multiple independent data sources within the surveillance chain. By analysing consistency between these sources, deviations and patterns in system behaviour become visible.

What kind of issues can be identified?
The Quick Check can reveal inconsistencies in coverage, unstable tracking behaviour, and misalignment between sensors or system tracks. These effects may not always be visible in the operational display but can still impact overall system reliability.

Does the Quick Check require system changes or special configurations?
No. The assessment is performed on recorded data without requiring modifications to the operational system.

Who typically performs the data recording?
The recording is usually prepared by the technical or engineering team responsible for the surveillance system, based on agreed guidance.

How detailed are the findings?
The results provide clear, data-supported insight into system behaviour, allowing users to understand where performance is consistent and where attention may be required.

Is the Quick Check suitable for all system types?
The approach is applicable to A-SMGCS environments where one or more surveillance data sources and system tracking data are available and can be analysed in combination.