Definition
A modification to certain ARTS (Automated Radar Terminal System) radar displays that allows a terminal radar facility to display secondary surveillance radar data — including aircraft identification, altitude, ground speed, and flight plan information — directly on the controller's radar scope. The PIDP processes beacon (transponder) returns and presents them as alphanumeric tags next to each target.
Plain English
A computer system that takes the data coming back from aircraft transponders and prints it as little labels right next to each aircraft on a controller's radar screen, so the controller can see who each blip is, how high it is, and how fast it's going.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft avionics, equipment descriptions, maintenance records, and acronym lists.
Derivation
Programmable means the system's behavior can be changed through software. Indicator refers to the radar display (the controller's scope). Data processor is the computer that handles incoming information. Together: a programmable computer that processes data for a radar indicator.
Why Pilots Care
When pilots talk to a terminal radar controller, the controller can see their callsign, altitude, and speed because of systems like PIDP. This is why a controller can call traffic accurately and assign altitudes with confidence in your readback — they're seeing your transponder data on their scope, not guessing.
Intuition Check
Do not read PIDP as a pilot procedure or clearance. In this context, it refers to an electronic equipment unit that processes data for an indicator or display.
Example Sentence 1
The PIDP modification gave smaller terminal facilities the ability to display alphanumeric data tags alongside radar targets.
Example Sentence 2
Updates from the flight computer are routed through the PIDP to refresh the cockpit displays.