5b-Avionics Technology

What is the definition of avionics?

Avionics typically represent a small cost component of modern combat aircraft.

What was a key characteristic of avionics in the 1950s-60s?

Which decade saw the introduction of digital ICs in avionics?

During the 1980s-90s, there was a rapid growth in ______ power, with functions increasingly implemented in software.

What is the role of hybrid chips & ASICs in microelectronic devices?

Which of the following constitutes a key function of hybrid chips and ASICs?

The obsolescence of chips is not a challenge in the design of avionics systems.

Which type of memory device typically stores application software?

What is the primary function of RAM in avionics systems?

What is one impact of using digital data buses in avionics systems?

What is a primary benefit of digital data buses in avionics?

The Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP) did not use MIL-STD-1553B.

Which aircraft system used ARINC 429 buses to link multiple system controllers with avionics displays?

The Boeing 777 features the adoption of the ______ bus to integrate flight controls, avionics, and aircraft systems.

What is the main purpose of Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) in avionics packaging standards?

Which of the following is a standard form-factor for LRUs?

What does MCU stand for in avionics packaging standards?

A Modular Concept Unit (MCU) is equivalent to approximately 5 inches.

What is the typical size of small controllers in terms of MCUs?

Roughly, how big are complex LRUs (such as combined ADIRS)?

A Power Supply Unit (PSU) converts aircraft power to low-voltage ______ rails.

What is the main function of a Power Supply Unit (PSU) in LRU architecture?

Name one environmental challenge that avionics components must withstand.

Environmental and EMI challenges are insignificant in avionics design.

Which of the following is an internal block commonly found in a typical LRU?

Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) moves beyond discrete ARINC 600 LRUs to shared computing resources in integrated ______.

What is the central concept behind Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA)?

Name one advantage of Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA).

Integrated Modular Avionics makes system upgrades more difficult.

What does the transition to Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) primarily involve?

Match the historical periods with the corresponding advancements in avionics:

Which characteristic is NOT associated with the transition from traditional avionics to Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA)?

In the context of avionics, what is the most significant implication of rapid obsolescence of microelectronic chips?

Considering the environmental and EMI challenges described, which design consideration is most crucial for avionics destined for high-altitude flight?

Explain the trade-offs involved in choosing between ROM and RAM for avionics software storage, considering factors such as data volatility and update frequency.

An aircraft manufacturer decides to adopt a new Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) architecture. Which of the following best describes the initial impact on their supply chain and maintenance procedures?

The primary reason for the adoption of ARINC 629 bus in the Boeing 777 was to reduce the computational load on individual processors, not to integrate different aircraft systems.

In the context of LRU architecture, the Power Supply Unit is essential for regulating both voltage and ______, ensuring stable and safe operation of sensitive avionics components.

You are tasked with selecting memory chips for a new avionics system that requires storing both critical system software and operational flight data. Given the need for data retention without power and the ability to update flight data, what combination of memory types would be most appropriate?

Describe a scenario where the benefits of Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) would significantly outweigh the costs and complexities of its implementation in a next-generation commercial airliner, and explain why.