MD-83
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Human-Machine Interface; Confusion; Distraction
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Aircraft; Human Factors
We were in a climbing right turn off of Runway 18L cleared to 4;000 FT. About 3;800 FT we received an RA with no previous TA. The RA directed us orally and visually to 'descend' at 1;500 - 2;000 FPM and showed the target directly on our position at the same altitude. I immediately initiated a descent to comply while we both searched outside for traffic [with] no avail. As we descended; the target stayed in the same place at the same altitude. We advised ATC of the RA and they assured us no traffic was in the area. We stopped our descent at 3;000 FT and began our climb up to 4;000 FT. The RA continued for about 2 minutes showing the same position and altitude. It then went away and operated normally for the rest of the flight. I'm sure the transition from climb to 1500 FPM descent in short period was disconcerting for the passengers. We advised the flight attendants and passengers after the event to explain what happened and to ease fear. There were no reports of injuries or adverse reactions. When arriving at our destination; the TCAS was deferred.
An MD-83 on departure responded to an apparently false TCAS RA.