Upgrade Central

New business, commercial and military aircraft have high-definition, display-centered designs, EFB integration and other software-based human-machine interface designs. But push button switches and hardwired controls might not be going anywhere any time soon.

Aircraft data acquisition technology continues to evolve with more modularity, increased processing power and real time air-to-ground transfer capabilities alongside increasing proliferation of engine, aircraft system and airframe component sensors.

Fast-evolving databus test technology brings new life to the test, simulation, and analysis of tried-and-true protocols like MIL-STD-1553 and ARINC 429.

Synthetic, enhanced and combined vision systems, alongside the coming of age of touchscreens, are boosting the intuitive nature of today’s cockpits.

Demand is widespread for electronic flight bags, Avionics readers tell us (and other data show), as operators seek to improve and maintain advantages in boosting the efficiency of their flights.

Airspace mandates, obsolescence and emerging needs for systems appearing on new aircraft, such as the CS100, are driving growth in the test equipment market. MROs and manufacturers speak to how their systems are evolving to keep pace.

Modern flight-analysis gear includes capabilities to monitor aircraft, flight patterns, mechanical integrity and more.

The avionics test market has seen a boost due to various upcoming mandates, like the U.S.’s ADS-B 2020 deadline.

Upgrades supporting in-flight and cockpit connectivity are planned as new broadband systems take off.