The CDU--XLS is an integrated, long--range, multi--sensor navigation and frequency management system comprised of the CDU--XLS Control Display Unit (CDU), Navigation Management Unit (NMU), an optional Receiver Processor Unit (RPU), if VLF/OMEGA is required, and a Data Transfer Unit (DTU). The CDU has an internal GPS receiver with three antenna options.

The CDU−XLS is an “earth−oriented” navigation system. In other words, it determines its location in terms of latitude and longitude. Positional data inputs to the system must also be defined by latitude and longitude, or referenced to a point on the ground whose latitude and longitude are known. The data base in the CDU can be loaded with an extensive library of navaid data.

• Navigation from flight plans which allows the use of published routes or other flight paths more complex than direct point--to--point navigation.
• Parallel track flight which allows flight at a selected distance from and parallel to the originally selected track.
• Vertical navigation along ascent and descent profiles whose end points are related to flight plan waypoints. Please note that VNAV is advisory only.
• The ability to capture the coordinates of a pilot defined waypoint and produce a labeled waypoint.
• The ability to designate waypoints by identifier, latitude and longitude, or by radial and distance, relative to a selected reference point.