ARINC 664, also known as AFDX (Avionics Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet), is an Ethernet-based communication standard developed to meet the rigorous demands of civil and military aviation. It was created to replace older buses like ARINC 429, offering greater bandwidth, full-duplex communication, and deterministic traffic control.
Implemented mainly in next-generation commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787, AFDX allows for a flexible, secure, and highly reliable network infrastructure to interconnect complex avionics systems.
📡 Where is ARINC 664/AFDX used?
This protocol is employed to interconnect critical onboard systems, such as:
- Flight control computers (FCC, FCDC)
- Navigation and traffic management systems
- Human-machine interfaces (EFIS, CDU)
- Communication modules, engines, and integrated sensors
- Networks between multiple LRUs (Line Replaceable Units)
🔍 How does ARINC 664 work?
ARINC 664 is based on Ethernet 100BASE-TX (100 Mbps), but with a specific architecture to ensure determinism and data security, something that standard Ethernet does not offer by itself.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Physical medium | Ethernet full-duplex 100 Mbps (IEEE 802.3) |
| Topology | Switching via dedicated AFDX switches |
| Traffic types | Virtual Links (VLs) with QoS control |
| Fault tolerance | Redundant communication through two independent channels |
| Base protocol | IP/UDP over Ethernet with deterministic filtering |
The concept of Virtual Link (VL) is central: it defines the path a data packet must follow, with guaranteed bandwidth, maximum delay, and flow exclusivity — ensuring that critical systems receive information in a predictable and secure manner.
🛠️ How AJOLLY Testing supports testing with ARINC 664
AJOLLY Testing develops test solutions that integrate ARINC 664 to validate avionics systems and simulate embedded networks with:
- Virtual Link (VL) emulation for testing UUTs (Units Under Test)
- Integration with tools like LabVIEW, TestStand and Wireshark
- Performance validation, QoS, and packet integrity
- Capture, analysis, and complete traceability of AFDX traffic
- Integration with test benches, test jigs, and modular systems with embedded I/O
✅ Advantages of ARINC 664 (AFDX)
- High transmission speed (100 Mbps)
- Scalable and redundant architecture
- Support for multiple flows with deterministic control
- Fault tolerance via redundant channels
- Interoperability between modules from various suppliers
ARINC 664 takes avionics communication to a new level. With AJOLLY Testing, its implementation in test environments ensures safety, reliability, and performance at all stages of the development cycle.