Avionics Practice Test: Autopilots and Flight Management Systems — Flashcards

Autopilots and Flight Management Systems topics include: Autopilots, height and heading control, flight management systems, ils/mls coupled landing system and automatic landing.
An autopilot is a software or tool that can manage an aircraft using the vehicle's hydraulic, mechanical, and electronic systems. Modern autopilots are often integrated with the flight management system (FMS). 
 

Here's some more information about autopilots and FMS:
Autopilot: Autopilot software is integrated with the navigation systems and can control the aircraft throughout each phase of flight. It can follow the flight plan, stabilize speed and height, and the location of the front of the aircraft (heading).
FMS: FMS is an avionics system that uses a predefined flight plan to calculate and display an aircraft's lateral and vertical trajectory. It provides guidance throughout the flight. 
In CMD (Command) mode, the autopilot has full control of the aircraft, and receives its input from either the heading/altitude setting, radio and navaids, or the FMS. In CWS mode, the pilot controls the autopilot through inputs on the yoke or the stick. 

Related: Aircraft Maintenance Practice Test: Flight Management System