Localizer

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• A localizer is one component of an ILS or Instrument Landing System. The localizer usually provides runway centerline guidance to aircraft. In some cases a localizer is at an angle to the runway usually due to obstructions around the airport. Localizers also exist in stand-alone instrument approach installations and are not always part of an ILS or Instrument Landing System. The Localizer is placed about 1.000 feet on the far end of the approached runway. Horizontal guidance gets more accurate the closer you fly to the Localizer station. Localizer approaches have their specific weather minimums found on approach plates.

Localizer as component of an ILS (KMEZ Runway 27, Mena, Arkansas).

• A localizer is also a fictional device in the works of Vernor Vinge, such as A Deepness in the Sky. These are tiny devices, powered by microwave pulses, which can contain a simple processor, sensors, and short-range communications. Vinge explores how wireless mesh networking of these simple devices in a mobile ad-hoc network can be put to use in ways quite different from traditional computer networks. See smartdust for a similar idea.