B1-05.13 SOFTWARE MANAGEMENT CONTROL

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Questions and Answers

Which software level is associated with failures that could prevent the aircraft from a safe landing?

Level B
Level D
Level C
Level A (correct)

What is the acceptable probability of failure for software classified as Level B?

Less than 1 in $10^{-7}$ per flight hour (correct)
Less than 1 in $10^{-3}$ per flight hour
Less than 1 in $10^{-5}$ per flight hour
Less than 1 in $10^{-9}$ per flight hour

Which of the following systems is least likely to be controlled by Level A software?

Flight control computers
In-flight entertainment (correct)
Fly-by-wire systems
Air data systems

Yaw dampers typically fall under which software level?

Level C (B) Signup and view all the answers

A failure in a system controlled by Level D software is most likely to result in:

Some inconvenience to the occupant. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which software level would be assigned to cabin lighting systems?

Level D (A) Signup and view all the answers

Considering both the potential consequences of failure and the acceptable failure probabilities, which of the following represents the most accurate pairing of software level and a corresponding system?

Level A - Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) (D) Signup and view all the answers

An engineer proposes upgrading an in-flight entertainment system to integrate minor flight data information (e.g., altitude, airspeed) for passenger convenience. Although the entertainment function remains unchanged, how should this modification impact the software's design assurance level, and why?

Require a full system safety assessment to determine the appropriate level, considering the reliability and integrity of the integrated flight data and its potential impact on crew workload and passenger response in emergency situations. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT directly listed as a system utilizing software in modern aircraft?

In-flight entertainment systems (D) Signup and view all the answers

What necessitates continuous software updates in aircraft navigation and flight management systems?

Evolving navigational requirements and changing waypoint positions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which document provides the criteria for assigning software levels to aircraft equipment and systems?

DO-178C (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the aircraft's Built-In Test Equipment (BITE)?

To communicate with other systems to test and identify problems. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which organizations jointly prepared DO-178C?

RTCA SC-167 and EUROCAE WG-12. (C) Signup and view all the answers

An unapproved software change introduces a latent error in the engine control system that causes a complete loss of thrust during a critical phase of flight. According to the learning objectives, this scenario BEST illustrates which potential consequence?

Catastrophic effects. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A software modification is made to an aircraft's fire protection system that inadvertently disables the automatic suppression function in the event of an engine fire. Considering the principles of software management and control, what level of risk does this modification MOST likely represent given its potential impact on airworthiness?

Hazardous or Catastrophic, due to potential for loss of life and aircraft. (B) Signup and view all the answers

An engineer proposes a software update to the aircraft's weather radar system to enhance its predictive capabilities, but the update has not undergone formal verification or validation processes as mandated by airworthiness standards. If implemented, what is the MOST immediate and critical risk associated with this unapproved modification regarding software management and control?

Compromised system reliability and safety due to unforeseen errors. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How often is the Navigation Database (NDB) typically replaced?

Every 28 days (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes Operator-Modifiable Software (OMS)?

Software that allows operators to modify system functions to suit operational needs. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of software is intended for modification by the aircraft operator without review by the certification authority?

User Modifiable Software (UMS) (C) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes User-Certifiable Software (UCS) from User Modifiable Software (UMS)?

Changes to UCS necessitate certification acceptable to the operator's regulatory authority, whereas UMS does not. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Operational Program Configuration (OPC) software?

To determine the specific operational functions of a Line-Replaceable Unit (LRU). (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following systems is least likely to be a target for User Modifiable Software (UMS) modifications?

Primary Flight Control System (PFCS) (A) Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where an airline wishes to optimize fuel consumption by adjusting parameters within the Flight Management System (FMS). Which type of software modification would be MOST appropriate and permissible, assuming all guidelines and regulations are followed?

Implementation of changes through User-Certifiable Software (UCS), with appropriate certification. (A) Signup and view all the answers

An operator discovers a minor inefficiency in the cabin lighting control software, leading to slightly increased power consumption. They propose a change that neither affects safety nor performance of primary flight systems. To streamline the modification process while maintaining compliance, which pathway represents the MOST efficient and appropriate sequence?

Develop and deploy a User Modifiable Software (UMS) update, carefully documenting the changes but foregoing external certification. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What are the common types of data loaders used in aviation?

Airborne Data Loaders (ADLs) and Portable Data Loaders (PDLs) (D) Signup and view all the answers

Besides ADLs and PDLs, which of the following can provide data loading and fault-recording capability?

Portable Maintenance Access Terminals (PMATs) (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common media format used by data loaders to transfer information into aircraft systems?

3.5-in. disc (1.44 MB) (B) Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is an external data loader typically used?

For software associated with the Flight Management Computer (FMC). (B) Signup and view all the answers

What critical step must always be followed when loading software into an aircraft?

Following the loading procedures as defined by the operator and the Aircraft Maintenance Manual. (C) Signup and view all the answers

After loading FLS, where should the loading be recorded?

In the Aircraft Configuration List (ACL), with copies kept on board and in maintenance records. (D) Signup and view all the answers

After loading LSAP, what documentation must be issued?

A Certificate of Release to Service. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Consider an aircraft undergoing a complex avionics upgrade that involves loading new software for the FMS, EICAS, and autopilot systems. After loading the necessary LSAP, which of the following represents the MOST comprehensive and regulatory-compliant course of action regarding documentation and verification before the aircraft can return to service?

Record the LSAP loading in the ACL with copies both on board and in the operator's maintenance records, verify the software on-board using established maintenance manual procedures, conduct a thorough system integration test to confirm interoperability, and issue a Certificate of Release to Service by authorized personnel. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using Electronic Distribution of Software (EDS) for FLS?

It speeds up distribution and removes the need for physical transport media. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When replacing affected Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), why is it important to not solely rely on the target hardware part number?

The target hardware part number may not accurately reflect the loaded software part number. (C) Signup and view all the answers

According to Aviation Australia's guidelines. what environmental condition should be avoided to ensure FLS and storage media reliability?

Magnetic or electromagnetic sources (B) Signup and view all the answers

If copies of LSAP need to be made, what process should be followed?

The aircraft Type Design Organisation-approved FLS storage media replication process should be used. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What documentation typically accompanies procured LSAP to verify its authenticity and airworthiness?

A JAA Form 1 or FAA 8130-3 form. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to perform a 'confidence' check on navigation/performance data received through Electronic Distribution of Software (EDS)?

To verify the received data satisfies its intended use after the changes. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where FLS storage media was unintentionally exposed to a temperature of $60 \degree C$ for two hours. According to Aviation Australia, what immediate action should be taken?

Quarantine the media for disposal, as it is outside the recommended temperature range. (D) Signup and view all the answers

An engineer is tasked with replicating LSAP for an aircraft's navigation system. The Type Design Organisation's approved process involves a specific software tool and checksum verification. The engineer, facing time constraints decides to use a readily available disk imaging tool and skips checksum verification. What is the most probable consequence of this deviation from the approved process?

The replicated LSAP may introduce latent errors, compromising the integrity of the navigation system and potentially leading to operational hazards. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for using preloaded software in certain aircraft components?

To accommodate components in inaccessible areas or where software changes are infrequent. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which document is typically required for a Loadable Software Aircraft Part (LSAP)?

EASA Form 1 or FAA 8130-3. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What defines a Non-Loadable Software Aircraft Part or Aeronautical Database (ADB)?

Field-loadable software which is not part of the certified aircraft configuration. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why might the manufacturer prefer to preload software rather than allow field loading?

To maintain control over the software and protect proprietary information. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of Aeronautical Databases (ADB)?

They are commonly used for navigation, flight planning, and terrain awareness. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining characteristic that distinguishes Model/Engine Databases (MEDB) from Aeronautical Databases in terms of regulatory status?

MEDB databases are LSAP software, whereas Aeronautical Databases are not part of the certified aircraft configuration. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Consider an aircraft undergoing a major avionics upgrade. How would you differentiate between software that requires an EASA Form 1 and software that requires rigorous configuration control but not necessarily a new Type Certificate?

Software requiring an EASA Form 1 is a Loadable Software Aircraft Part (LSAP), integral to the aircraft's approved design, whereas software with rigorous configuration control is likely a Non-LSAP part like a navigation database. (D) Signup and view all the answers

An aircraft operator wishes to update the terrain database on their EFB (Electronic Flight Bag). This database provides enhanced ground proximity warning system (GPWS) capabilities but is not directly linked to the aircraft's flight control systems. Based on the information provided, what regulatory considerations apply to this update?

This update likely requires rigorous configuration control to ensure data integrity, but does not require a formal modification approval or STC, as it is considered a Non-LSAP. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Software Management Control

Managing and controlling software on aircraft.

Aircraft Software Applications

Engine controls, navigation, displays, and testing systems.