Alternate brake hydraulic system selection is automatic.
The alternate brake system is powered by the Centre hydraulic system. When Right hydraulic pressure to the normal brake system is low, an alternate source selector valve automatically opens to supply Centre hydraulic system pressure to the alternate brake system. Pushing a brake pedal opens the respective alternate brake metering valve, allowing pressure to pass through the alternate antiskid valves to the brakes.
The BRAKE SOURCE light illuminates and the EICAS advisory message BRAKE SOURCE displays if both the normal and the alternate brake system pressures are low. The light extinguishes if the Reserve Brakes and Steering system is selected and pressure is available. If the BRAKE SOURCE Light remains illuminated, the Brake Accumulator is the only source of power to the brakes.
The same antiskid controller and light are used by both the normal and alternate brake systems. The controller regulates pressure through each alternate antiskid valve to a set of laterally paired wheels based on eight separate wheel speed transducer inputs.
When a potential skid is detected, the controller signals the appropriate valve to reduce brake pressure. Since each valve controls pressure for two wheels, brake pressure is reduced to both wheels. In addition to skid protection, locked wheel, hydroplane and touchdown protection are provided.
When the alternate brake system is powered, the ANTISKID light monitors the alternate brake system.