Abstract

In the late 1980s, there was a push toward integration of multiple functions on a common computing and I/O platform, also referred to as integrated modular avionics (IMA). Combined with this push was a trend to reduce wiring and integrate formerly dedicated buses into system-level communication buses. The advantages are decreased size, cost, and weight; increased reliability; less-frequent maintenance; and more flexibility. The ARINC 629 communication network was the answer in aerospace to the request of integrated system-level buses. The predecessor ARINC 429 [3] had a single sender and multiple receiver topological and logical approach, and ARINC 629 extends the capabilities of the network to support a multiple-sender, multiple-receiver architecture while guaranteeing timely communication. And all this in an environment where high reliability, high availability, and high integrity are required to ensure safety of an aircraft. In addition, ARINC 629 uses current coupling for an electrical physical connection avoiding error-prone physical connections. ARINC 629 is a time division multiplex system. It includes multiple transmitters with broadcast-type, autonomous terminal access.