Network Communications for a Distributed Avionics System,

Due to the postulated 1990s threat environment advanced avionics architectures are experiencing demands for increased performance which have led, in part, to increased processing requirements and system complexity. As more processors are added to the control environment of sophisticated military aircraft, the choice of processor interconnection topology, and methodology assumes greater importance. This choice profoundly influences information throughput, reliability, survivability and integrity throughout the weapon system. The ability to rapidly exchangetransfer information among processors and devices is critical if one is to develop a reliable, effective communication system. This paper addresses basic communication techniques which could serve as candidates in satisfying the network communication requirements of an advanced avionics architecture. Features of each technique are examined to ascertain the performance of these multi-access protocols in terms of developed system-driven criteria. Author