Abstract: The offset between a reference clock output signal and a target clock output signal are measured during a predetermined period. Based on the measurement, an offset signal is generated. The offset signal is integrated into an average offset signal value, wherein the period of integration is the predetermined phase measurement time. The target clock is adjusted based on the average offset signal value so that the offset signal magnitude value approaches a predetermined limit. The process is iterated until the clocks are aligned within a predetermined tolerance.

Abstract: An antenna array (501) for use in an aviation application setting comprises an external covering (503) and at least four radio frequency antennas that are disposed underneath and that are protected by the external covering. This external covering is at least partially permeable to radio frequency signals and will provide at least a substantial barrier against external moisture and objects that might otherwise harm the antennas. This external covering is also configured and arranged to be disposed, at least in part, in a fixed position proximal to an exterior surface (206) of an aircraft. The four radio frequency antennas are electrically discrete from one another and are each configured and arranged to receive radio frequency signals for a corresponding different radio frequency platform. These four radio frequency antennas are also configured and arranged as an integral mechanical structure.

Abstract: An aviation radio frequency receiver front end (502) and a corresponding antenna (501) are coupled together. The antenna is configured and arranged to be disposed during use in a fixed position proximal to an exterior surface of the aircraft fuselage. By one approach the antenna and the aviation radio frequency receiver front end are disposed in close physical proximity to one another. This can comprise, for example, having these elements comprise a single integrated physical structure. This can also comprise, where desired, disposing a corresponding aviation radio frequency receiver back end in close proximity to such components.

Abstract: A group multiplexed output (208) operably couples to each unique intermediate frequency received signal output as corresponds to a plurality of aviation radio frequency receiver front ends (502). By one approach, this can comprise, in particular, multiplexing, in frequency, each of the discrete received signal outputs for each of the plurality of aviation radio frequency receiver front ends with one another. By one approach, each such aviation radio frequency receiver front end is configured and arranged to receive radio frequency signals for a corresponding different radio frequency platform (as may each correspond, for example, to a different aviation operational purpose).