UP AND DOWN DATA LOADING SYSTEM ACQUISITION/INTERFACE AND EQUIPMENT (DLRB, DLS) - DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

1. General
The digitalization function is to remove the physical field load-service media-on-board.
The airline must download Airbus and Suppliers software through the Airbus Electronic-Delivery Service.

The data uploading and downloading system is an interface between the onboard computers and the ground-base data processing-stations.

It has the functions that follow (only operational on the ground):

A. UPLOADING Function (only on ground)

From a media (3.5 inch disk), onboard computers use the uploading function to update their data bases or to modify part of their operational software.

B. DOWNLOADING Function

This function is used to download to a 3.5 inch disk the data recorded by certain computers during aircraft operation.

These disk-stored data can be directly analyzed on the ground by the airlines on a suitable data processing tool.

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

2. Component Location

Up and Down Data Loading System - Component Location ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The basic definition comprises the installation of wiring, a data loading selector (DLS) (101TD), a data loading routing box (DLRB) (102TD) and a data loader (1TD) called Multipurpose Disk Drive Unit (MDDU).

Two stowage boxes are installed in the cockpit, in the sidewall panels 211FW, 212FW.

FIN	FUNCTIONAL DESIGNATION	PANEL	ZONE	ATA REF
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
101TD	SELECTOR-DATA LOADING	20VU	212	31-38-21
102TD	ROUTING BOX-DATA LOADING	80VU	120	31-38-34
1TD	MDDU	11VU	211	31-38-22

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

3. System Description

A. Description

The system comprises:

a data loading selector

The DLS allows the user to control DLRB activity and operation mode. It permits to scroll into the target list of LRU, shown on the DLS display, and to select or unselect the desired LRU to be loaded.
a data loading routing box

The DLRB routes the input/output data between the disk unit and the target computer.
an onboard data loader called the Multipurpose Disk Drive Unit (MDDU).

The data loader complies with ARINC 615-3 definition and remains compatible with ARINC 603. The changes introduced by this new standard are:

the use of commercial 3.5 inch disks
passage to ARINC 429 high speed bus, while retaining low speed dialog capability
application of the DOWNLOADING function.

ARINC 615-1 also defines the disk. It must be formatted under MS-DOS 3.3 (Microsoft Disk Operating System version 3.3).

A special file called the CONFIGURATION FILE is defined to be included on the disk. This file, specific to the computer to be loaded contains all the information (transmission/reception bus speed, name of file to be loaded, etc.) required by the data loader to transfer the data. This file is never transferred to the computer memories.

A default configuration file is stored in the data loader with predefined parameters (default values).

This file is used by the data loader if the disk used:

does not have a configuration file
has an incomplete configuration file.

This configuration file is necessary for uploading.

This configuration file is not indispensable for downloading.

Operation mode is described in para. Operation/Control and Indicating.

The system comprises:

a data loading selector

The DLS allows the user to control DLRB activity and operation mode. It permits to scroll into the target list of LRU, shown on the DLS display, and to select or unselect the desired LRU to be loaded.
a data loading routing box

The DLRB routes the input/output data between the disk unit and the target computer.
an onboard data loader called the Multipurpose Disk Drive Unit (MDDU).

The data loader complies with ARINC 615-3 definition and remains compatible with ARINC 603. The changes introduced by this new standard are:

the use of commercial 3.5 inch disks
passage to ARINC 429 high speed bus, while retaining low speed dialog capability

does not have a configuration file
has an incomplete configuration file.

This configuration file is necessary for uploading.

Operation mode is described in para. Operation/Control and Indicating.

B. Architecture - Computer Interface (ARINC 429)

Each computer using the data loading system is connected to it by two ARINC 429 (input/output) buses and one associated Load Enable discrete.

Computers connected

(1) Flight Management and Guidance Computers 1 and 2 (FMGC) (Ref. AMM D/O 22-70-00-00) to periodically update the NAV data base (waypoints, navaids, runways, airports, etc.) that the FMGCs use to elaborate the flight plans.

(2) Centralized Fault Display Interface Unit (CFDIU) (31-32-00)

(a) To load the FILTER DATA BASE (31-38-00)

(b) Other connections:

an input discrete is wired for test function
an output discrete is wired for test result.

(3) Air Traffic Services Unit (ATSU) (46-21-00):

To load the A/C interface software, an operational software part and a data base including the format of the reports defined by the airline requirements.

(4) Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) (Ref. AMM D/O 34-43-00-00) (if installed)

To load the operating algorithms and the reconfiguration of the inputs/outputs of the TCAS computer.

NOTE: The wiring is installed on TCAS system provision.

(5) Display Management Computer (DMC) (Ref. AMM D/O 31-60-00-00)

To load the operational software of the computer.

(6) Flight Data Interface Management Unit (FDIMU)

To load the DFDRS software of the FDIMU (Ref. AMM D/O 31-33-00-00)
To load the AIDS software of the FDIMU (Ref. AMM D/O 31-36-00-00)

C. Architecture - Computer interface (ARINC 615A)

Each computer capable of high speed data loading and with this data loading function activated, is connected to the connector mounting plate by two ARINC 615A (input/output) buses and one associated Load Enable discrete.

Computers connected:

D. Architecture - Landing Gear Control and Interface Unit (LGCIU)

The LGCIU1 sends flight/ground information by a discrete signal connected to the portable data loader plug connector.

(1) Ground

The right main gear shock absorber is compressed.

(2) Flight

The right main gear shock absorber is extended.

E. Architecture - DLRB/DLS interface

The DLS sends the user commands to the DLRB and displays the result of these commands take into account by the DLRB.

(1) RS422 bi-directional line (display control, keys and DLS BITE acquisition).

(2) Power supply (the DLS is powered by the DLRB).

(3) 1 discrete (ON/OFF function).

F. Architecture - MDDU/DLRB

(1) 1 ARINC 429 input/output.

(2) 4 ARINC 603 discrete inputs (track select function) used by certain LRUs.

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

4. Power Supply

DLRB and MDDU - Power Supply ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The system uses 28VDC and 115VAC.

A. 28VDC Power Supply

The data loading routing box permitting connection of loadable computers to the data loader is supplied with 28VDC from 28VDC BUS 1 103PP through circuit breaker 5TD.

B. 115VAC Power Supply

The data loader is supplied with 115VAC from 115VAC BUS 1 103XP-B (from the AC main generation through circuit breaker 3TD).

C. Circuit Breakers

The following table defines the circuit breakers used by the system.

PANEL	DESIGNATION	FIN	LOCATION
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
121VU	DATA/LOADER/SPLY	3TD	J16
121VU	DLS&/DLRB/SPLY	5TD	J15
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
121VU	PDL/PWR/SPLY	14TD	K19

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

5. Interface

DLRB - Computer Interface ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The DLRB is connected to loadable computers via ARINC 429 buses and discretes.

It can also dialog with Portable Test Equipment (PTE) via RS-232 type link.

A. Input/Output Capacity

(1) Link with target LRU

26 ARINC 429 input buses
26 ARINC 429 output buses
26 Load Enable discretes.

(2) Link with target LRU (downloading function)

4 additional Load Enable discretes.

(3) Link with CFDIU.

1 input discrete test
1 output discrete test result.

(4) Link with DLS

1 ON/OFF discrete
RS422 input/output.

(5) Link with portable data loader plug connector

4 discretes (ARINC 603 protocol)
1 ARINC 429 input/output.

(6) Link with LGCIU (via portable data loader plug connector)

1 input discrete AIR/GROUND signal.

(7) 4 discretes (RS-232 interface for workshop maintenance).

B. Exchange from disk unit to target computers (Label numbers)

NOTE: Except for DLRB loading, the different protocols are elaborated by the data loader and the target computer. The DLRB does not interfere these protocols.

The table below gives the list of labels with their transmission rate (Low Speed: 12.5 to 14 kbps/High Speed: 100 Kbps).

MDDU output (uploding function)

(1) Label numbers (FMGC)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 300 (FMGC1) ! LS !

!---------------!-------------!

! 300 (FMGC2) ! LS !

!---------------!-------------!

(2) Label numbers (ATSU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 304 (ATSU) ! HS/LS !

-------------------------------

(3) Label numbers (TCAS)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 306 (TCAS) ! HS !

-------------------------------

(4) Label numbers (DMU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 302 (DMU) ! HS !

!(PART OF FDIMU)! !

-------------------------------

(5) Label numbers (FDIU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 170 (FDIU) ! HS !

!(PART OF FDIMU)! !

-------------------------------

(6) Label numbers (MDDU/CFDIU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (MDDU) ! LS !

-------------------------------

! 303 (CFDIU) ! LS !

-------------------------------

(7) Label numbers (DMC)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 200 (DMC1) ! HS !

-------------------------------

C. Exchange from disk unit to target computers (Label characteristics)

The parameter characteristic table gives:

ES.SYS.LAB.SDI (LAB):

Label of the parameter (ARINC 429 octal value).
PARAMETER DEFINITION:

Gives the name of the parameter.
XMSN/INTV:

This column gives the time between data transmissions. The refresh rate is given in milliseconds (UPD/MSEC).

(1) Label characteristics (MDDU/FMGC/CFDIU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 !address ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !MDDU ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

! 300 !FMGC 1 & 2! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

! 303 !CFDIU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) Label characteristics (TCAS)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 306 ! TCAS ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(3) Label characteristics (DMU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 302 ! DMU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! ! (FDIMU) ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(4) Label characteristics (FDIU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 170 ! FDIU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! ! (FDIMU) ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

! ! protocol ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(5) Label characteristics (ATSU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 304 ! ATSU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(6) Label characteristics (DMC)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 200 !DMC1 ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. Exchange from target computers to disk unit (Label numbers)

NOTE: Except for DLRB loading, the different protocols are elaborated by the data loader and the target computer. The DLRB does not interfere these protocols.

(1) Label numbers (FMGC)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (FMGC1) ! HS !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (FMGC2) ! HS !

!---------------!-------------!

(2) Label numbers (ATSU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (ATSU) ! HS !

-------------------------------

(3) Label numbers (TCAS)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (TCAS) ! HS !

-------------------------------

(4) Label numbers (DMU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (DMU) ! HS !

!(PART OF FDIMU)! !

-------------------------------

(5) Label numbers (FDIU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 170 (FDIU) ! HS !

!(PART OF FDIMU)! !

-------------------------------

(6) Label numbers (MDDU/CFDIU)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (MDDU) ! LS !

-------------------------------

! 226 (CFDIU) ! LS !

-------------------------------

(7) Label numbers (DMC)

-------------------------------

! LABEL ! SPEED !

!---------------!-------------!

! 226 (DMC1) ! HS !

-------------------------------

E. Exchange from target computers to disk unit (Label characteristics)

(1) Label Characteristics (PDL/FMGC/CFDIU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 !address ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !portable ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

! !data ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! !loader ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

! 226 !FMGC 1 & 2! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

! 226 !CFDIU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) Label characteristics (TCAS)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 ! TCAS ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

(3) Label characteristics (DMU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 ! DMU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! ! (FDIMU) ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

! ! protocol ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

(4) Label characteristics (FDIU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 170 ! FDIU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! ! (FDIMU) ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

! ! protocol ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(5) Label characteristics (ATSU)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 ! ATSU ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

(6) Label characteristics (DMC)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

| PARAMETER LIST PARAMETER CHARACTERISTICS (NUMERIC) |

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! 226 !DMC1 ! ! ! ! 16 ! 3/ ! ! !

! !protocol ! ! ! ! !9999! ! !

!--------------!----------!------------!----!----!----!----!----!-------------!

F. RS422 Interface

The interface between the DLRB and the DLS is made of a RS422 bi-directional serial link.

(1) Information exchanged on the serial line

(a) From the DLRB to the DLS

1 During normal operational mode

The content of the text which is displayed on the LCD screen.

2 During power-up mode of DLS

Information devoted to initialization of the LCD screen.

(b) From the DLS to the DLRB

1 During normal operational mode

NEXT, PREV, SEL CTL keys signals and DLS BITE status which are treated by the DLRB.

2 During power-up mode

The resulting BITE status of the test which is analysed by the DLRB.

G. RS-232 Interface

Part of the connector is reserved for Portable Test Equipment (PTE) use during workshop maintenance operations. BITE results are stored in a non-volatile memory (NVM).

This memory reserved for recording failures is divided into 4 zones. Zone 1 stores internal and external failures detected during the last or current flight leg.

Zone 2 stores internal failures detected on the ground.

These two zones can only be read by the CFDIU.

Zones 3 and 4 provide permanent storage of in-depth data concerning the failures (information on the internal part of the data loader).

These two zones can only be read by the PTE.

H. ARINC 603 Compatibility

The data loader defined by ARINC 615-1 is designed to be compatible with the definition given by ARINC 603. A group of 4 discretes activated independently by the data loader enables simulation of the ARINC 603 protocol.

I. 3.5 Inch Disk

(1) Features

The data loader uses a 3.5 inch double-sided high density disk. Its capacity is 2 Mbytes (non-formatted) and 1.44 Mbytes (formatted: MS-DOS Version 3.3).

Its general features are:

double-sided
80 tracks per side
18 sectors per track
512 bytes per sector.

(2) Marking/identification

Each disk stored on the aircraft is identified by a label with the following indications:

(a) Functional designation:

FMGC navigation data base, ACARS data base, etc.

(b) Aircraft type:

A/C / MODEL(OPTIONAL) / TAIL(OPTIONAL) / NUMBER(OPTIONAL).

(c) Part Number:

Hardware reference of the disk and software reference of the loadable software which is the same as the reference of the loaded computer itself (or data base or airline customization reference if any).

(d) Supplier's name:

Name of the supplier of the formatted disk and its contents.

(e) Supplier's code

Code of the supplier of the formatted disk and its contents.

(f) FIN only for TCAS computer, ACARS MU, AIDS DMU operational disk.

J. MDDU Interface (Messages)

A 16-character display permits communications between the operator and the data loader. The messages inform the operator of the transfer status 12 messages can be displayed, one at a time.
These messages are:

MDDU READY:

when the data loader has performed a power on self-test and if no anomaly is detected, this message is displayed.
READY:

A disk is inserted in the loader drive. The equipment is ready. This message acknowledges disk insertion.
WAIT RESPONSE:

This message is displayed when the data loader is waiting for a response from the computer at initialization.

This situation may arise for various reasons:
the computer is not power supplied or is out of order
the data loading selector is set to the wrong computer
the configuration file is not correct (e.g. wrong system address label etc.)
the LGCIU1 is not power supplied (the target computer does not receive the ground indicating that it is in load mode).

NOTE: This message can be displayed indefinitely, without display of an anomaly message.

TRANS FAILURE:

If the data loader has to stop data transfer (up or down loading) for any reason (time-out, bad checksum, etc.) this message is displayed. The data loader can be reset by a RESET command or by a power-on routine after the anomaly has been corrected, or by removing and inserting the disk.
UNIT FAIL:

The data loader displays this message if a hardware failure is detected during the self-test. In this case, the data loader stops all operations.

NOTE: The maintenance messages concerning the MDDU can be consulted on the SYSTEM REPORT TEST CFDS page (Ref. para. BITE).

DISK ERROR:

If the data loader cannot read or write data on the disk (incorrect formatting, write-protected, disk damaged, etc.) it will interrupt operations and display this message.
EJECT DISK and INSERT NEXT DISK:

When the volume of data to be transferred is large and requires several disks, these messages (shown one after the other) inform the operator that the disk must be changed.
DISK CHANGE:

Disk not compatible with the configuration file.
TRANSF COMPLETE:

When data transfer between the data loader and the computer has been successfully completed, this message is displayed to indicate the end of the transfer.
TRANSF IN PROG:

The data loader is in communication with the computer concerned when data transfer operations are completed.
BUS N: XXXXXXX (a BUS number appears with a decrementer):

This permits to display the progress of the uploading and shows that uploading is not stopped because of a failure.

NOTE: The N indication is the number of the bus in transfer (from 1 to 8). The XXXXXXX indication is the number of bytes or the remaining bytes to be transferred.

TEST IN PROGRESS:

The disk inserted in the loader is identified as a test disk. The data loader is in test mode.

NOTE: The disk should not be extracted while TRANSF IN PROG and TEST IN PROGRESS messages are displayed as damage to the disk could result.

TEST COMPLETED:

The test is over and no anomaly has been detected.
TEST FAILURE:

An anomaly has been detected during the test.

K. Data Loading Selector (DLS) Interface (Messages)

A LCD backlighted screen composed of two lines of 16 characters of target computers and the state of its link with the disk unit.

NOTE: The blinking of the display (2 or 3 times) is due to an action or a none autorized key.

(1) Name and state of LRUs (SELECTED / NOT SELECTED)

(a) List of message steps when going through the menu with PREV/NEXT key.

DLRB
NOT SELECTED

NOTE: When this display flashes , two or three time, shows that the NEXT/PREV action is in progress but the function is inoperative.

FMGC1
NOT SELECTED
FMGC2
NOT SELECTED
CFDIU
NOT SELECTED
TCAS
NOT SELECTED
ATSU
NOT SELECTED
ACMS
NOT SELECTED
FDRSYS
NOT SELECTED
DMC1
NOT SELECTED

(b) List of messages when the loading procedure is in progress

DLRB
SELECTED
FMGC1
SELECTED
FMGC2
SELECTED
CFDIU
SELECTED
TCAS
SELECTED
ATSU
SELECTED
ACMS
SELECTED
FDRSYS
SELECTED
DMC1
SELECTED

(2) List of Fault messages

(a) Selected channel failure after action SEL CTL key

DLRB CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
FMGC1 CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
FMGC2 CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
CFDIU CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
TCAS CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
ATSU CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
ACMS CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
FDRSYS CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL
DMC1 CHAN FAIL
PUSH SEL CTL

L. Data Loading Selector (DLS) Interface (Other messages)

(1) Message when DLS is powered, when going through the step menu or at the end of the DLRB loading procedure

DB/N:
PUSH NEXT/PREV

NOTE: the name of the data base follows the DB/N: indication except if the DLRB has never been loaded.

(2) Automatic display after failure of a DLRB loading procedure

UP-LOADING ERROR
PUSH SEL CTL

Fault symptom origin:

unwritten in EEPROM data base
abnormal interrupt of the protocol with the MDDU (as per ARINC 615)

(3) STANDBY message

STANDBY
PUSH NEXT/PREV

This menu is displayed before the programmed scrolling menu

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

6. Component Description

A. MDDU Description FIN: 1-TD

Multipurpose Drive Disk (MDDU) ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The front panel contains:

a window with a 16-character alphanumeric LCD display
a door protecting access to the disk drive (the display is always visible whether the access door is open or closed).

(1) door closed

the MDDU is protected against entry of dust and liquids.

(2) door open
the MDDU is not protected against entry of liquids.

The disk drive is protected against entry of dust by its own internal protection.

The MDDU can work with the door open or closed by the later method is preferable as shown by the KEEP DOOR CLOSED indication on the internal face of the door.

The disk is ejected by means of a disk extraction pushbutton switch located below the disk access slot. This pushbutton switch can only be used when the access door is open.

This switch is surrounded by a fluorescent label (green color).

(3) Mechanical characteristics

(a) Size

1 Height: 95.2 mm

2 Width: 146 mm

3 Depth: 194.5 mm

(b) Weight: 1.975 kg

(4) Electrical characteristics

(a) Power supply voltage: 115 V/400 Hz.

(b) Consumption: 11 W (mean value during data transfer).

(c) The MDDU senses undervoltages less than 80V as power interrupts. The type of restart depends on the duration of the interrupt.

1 Voltage more than 80 V:
No power interrupt is detected.

2 Voltage less than 80 V:

a and power interrupt less than 20 ms:
No power interrupt is detected (transparency time).

b and power interrupt greater than or equal to 20 ms and less than 200 ms:
A power interrupt is detected. The MDDU continues the program as soon as power returns (recovers transfer operation by starting at the beginning of the file being transmitted) (warm start).

c and power interrupt more than 200 ms and less than 5 s:
The MDDU restarts the program from the beginning (reads configuration file) (cold start).

d and power interrupt more than 5s:
The MDDU restarts the program from the beginning (cold start) and executes a Power On Self Test (POST) if in ground configuration.

B. DLRB Description FIN: 102-TD

Data Loading Routing Box (DLRB) ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The face of the DLRB includes four ASN-E0390 DD 01 P connectors named A, B, C, D, one identification plate and a free space for the buyer's CMS sticker.

(1) Mechanical characteristics

(a) Size

1 Height: 170

2 Width: 141

3 Depth: 162

(b) Weight: 2 kg (plus or mimus) 0.2 kg).

(2) Electrical characteristics

(a) Power supply voltage: 28VDC

(b) Consumption: 7.5 W (this power includes DLS consumption).

C. DLS Description FIN: 101-TD

Data Loading Selector (DLS) ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The DLS is the remote unit which commands the DLRB. The user interface consists in a two-line LCD display, and ON/OFF switch and three keys on the front panel.

The ON/OFF switch allows to put DLRB in "active or inactive" state through the ON/OFF discrete output. The ON/OFF switch does not command directly the DLS power supply. The DLS is powered by the DLRB through its supply outputs.

When powered on, the two-line screen displays the name of the LRU channel and its state (selected/not selected). The PREV and NEXT keys allow scrolling inside the allowed LRU namelist. The SEL CTL key allows a LRU to be selected or deselected.

(1) Mechanical characteristics

(a) Size

1 Height: 46.8 mm

2 Width: 146

3 Depth: 146.9

(b) Weight: 0.5 kg (plus or minus 0.125 kg)

(2) Electrical characteristics

(a) Power supply voltage: 28VDC from DLRB.

(b) Consumption: 1.2 W.

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

7. Operation

A. MDDU

MDDU - Board Layout ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

MDDU - Block Diagram ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The MDDU contains two su-assemblies:

an electronic unit
a disk drive.

(1) The electronic unit is composed of

(a) Power supply board

From a 115V/400Hz input, the power supply board supplies the DC sources (+5VDC, +12VDC and -12VDC) used by the MDDU components in normal operation.

In addition, it supplies a special voltage (+ 5VDC/P) which is protected for 250 ms. This is provided to maintain power on the RAM buffers Central Processing Unit (CPU) during a power interrupt less than 200 ms to perform a warm start.

(b) I/O board

This board is wired to the MDDU rear connector and provides the following I/Os:

ARINC 429 BUS
Discretes
RS-232 link.

This board is not involved in the RS-232 circuitry. It simply ensures connection between the MDDU rear connector and the CPU/Floppy Disk Drive Control (FDDC) board that processes this link.

CPU
FDDC

The CPU part performs all MDDU processing tasks.

The FDDC part performs the following functions:

mechanical control of the disk drive (motor start/stop, read/write head movement)
disk formatting
data read and write
disk status monitoring.

(d) Mother board

This board provides interconnection between the power supply, I/O and CPU/FDDC boards (supply voltages, data bus, address bus, etc.) and holds the LCD display.

The display format is a row of 16 alphanumeric characters and its technology is off the transflective type:

in bright light conditions, the characters appear in reflection mode
in dark conditions, the characters appear by transparency by means of a blue backlight.

(2) The disk drive is installed on shock mounts.

(3) Interconnection is ensured by:

(a) Wiring between the I/O board and the connector.

(b) Flexible printed circuit between the CPU/FDDC board and the disk drive.

B. DLRB

The DLRB is based on modern technology such as microprocessor and programmable logic devices. Design is made of full static devices: no switching part or electromechanical device are mounted inside the equipment. Operation of the equipment is driven by software.

(1) Mother board assembly

The mother board assembly is composed of three boards. Their main function is to ensure interconnection between the four front connectors and the application boards and to offer protection against disturbance of any type present on the input or outpjut signals.

one board ensures external interconnection.
one board ensures internal interconnection.
one board fulfills Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) filter function and ensures lightning protection.

(2) Children board

(a) Two identical boards are in charge of multiplexing and demultiplexing the ARINC 429 buses devoted to target LRU. A discrete Load Enable output line is provided with each ARINC 429 bus.

(b) Power supply and ARINC buffer boards

one board provides internal power supply of equipment, discrete inputs and outputs and signal adaptation of ARINC 429 buses.
one board provides central processing unit of DLRB. It is a classic processor board with a permanent memory for data base storage and an ARINC 429 transceiver, able to run only in low speed mode. ARINC 429 transceiver is used only for data base updating.

C. DLS

The DLS is made of three boards interconnected by way of flexible wires.

A board ensures a mechanical and an electrical interface for the three tactile keys PREV NEXT and SEL CTL. This board is located just behind the front panel of the DLS.
A board ensures the serial-to-parallel conversion and panel backlighting control.
A board provides the interconnection between the board which ensures the serial-to-parallel conversion and the rear connector and supports Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

8. Operation/Control and Indicating

A. MDDU

(1) Communication start-up

When there is no disk in the disk drive, the data loader does not communicate with any of the computers. To activate the data loader, a disk must be inserted in the drive. The LCD screen is on only when the MDDU is used.

The data loader reads the configuration file. Three cases are possible:

(a) The disk is not formatted or the disk is formatted but there is no configuration file.

As the disk has not configuration file, the data loader initiates an identification procedure serving to configure it correctly, defining the input and output buses and the label of the computer concerned by a downloading operation.

1 The disk is formatted. The data loader initiates a downloading procedure.

2 The disk is not formatted and the computer requests formatting.

a If the disk is write-protected, the data loader initiates a disk change procedure.

b If the disk is not write-protected, the data loader formats the disk and initiates a downloading procedure.

(b) The disk is formatted and there is a configuration file.
The data loader searches the disk for the file to be transferred, defined in the configuration file.

There are two possibilities:

1 Either the file to be transferred is on the disk; the data loader initiates the uploading procedure.

2 Or the file to be transferred is not on the disk; the data loader initiates the downloading procedure.

(2) Principle of uploading procedure

Uploading Procedure ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

The operator must:

(a) Select the disk corresponding to the computer to be loaded from the disks in the storage box.

(b) Select the computer by means of the data loading selector (by means of the SEL CTL key).

(d) Activation of the data loader

1 If there is no disk inserted in the data loader, the "MDDU READY" message is displayed on the LCD. The system is in the standby state.

NOTE: The < < MDDU READY > > indication is displayed permanently (even if the DLS is OFF).

2 When a disk is inserted in the drive, the data loader is activated and reads the configuration file. READY is displayed.

3 The data loader processes the information contained in the configuration file, contacts the computer to be loaded and displays the WAIT RESPONSE message until the computer is ready to receive the data.

4 As soon as a dialog is established between the computer to be loaded and the data loader, the TRANSF IN PROG message is displayed on the LCD and the data is transferred to the computer NVM.

5 De-select the computer by means of the SEL CTL key on the data loading selector.
When the data transfer is terminated and no anomalies are detected, the TRANSF COMPLETE message is displayed to inform the operator that the transfer is successfully completed.

NOTE: If uploading requires more than one disk, the EJECT DISK and INSERT NEXT DISK messages are displayed one after the other on the data loader LCD when the next disk needs to be inserted. This new disk must contain a configuration file identical to the previous one and its order in the sequence to be uploaded on the same computer.

(e) Eject the disk from the disk drive (the "MDDU READY" message is displayed on the LCD) and put it back into its storage box. Set the ON/OFF switch on the data loading selector to OFF.

(f) Check on one of the MCDUs that the software reference shown on the LRU IDENTIFICATION page of the computer concerned corresponds to the software reference of the disk used for uploading.

(3) Principle of downloading procedure

(a) If there is no disk inserted in the data loader disk drive, the system is in the standby state and does not communicate with any onboard computers.
The "MDDU READY" message is displayed on the data loader LCD.

(b) The data loader is activated by inserting the formatted or unformatted empty disk containing a configuration file defining the label of the computer concerned by the downloading operation. After the data loader has processed the information contained in the configuration file, it initiates a wait phase.
The READY message is displayed on the data loader LCD.

(c) If the disk inserted in the drive is configured to dialog with the DMU, the operator can download the reports by pushing the SEL CTL key on the data loading selector.

(d) After the computer has acknowledged the request, it sorts the data to be transferred into files and interrupts the wait phase established with the data loader.
The WAIT RESPONSE message is displayed on the data loader LCD.

(e) Then it downloads its information.
The TRANSF IN PROG message is displayed on the data loader LCD throughout the transfer.

B. DLS

The data loading selector enables selection of a dedicated computer. An LCD display permits to show, in english, the name of the loadable systems. This system computer list can be updated via the portable data loader and a disk.

The data loading selector is powered by the DLRB. The DLS is operational on ground only.

The face comprises:

a two-line LCD alphanumeric display
three keys
a power ON/OFF switch.

(1) Keys

Three tactile keys are used for target selection. The PREV and NEXT keys permit to scroll into the target list of LRUs. The SEL CTL key permits to select or deselect the desired LRU. This list of computers displayed on the DLS is extracted from the DLRB data base.

(a) PREV and NEXT keys

The operator scrolls forward and backward through the list of loadable computers with PREV and NEXT keys.

(b) SEL CTL key

First push action on the SEL CTL key permits to select the displayed computer to be loaded. Second push action permits to deselect the previous computer.

C. DLRB

The DLRB allows selection between several target Line Replaceable Unit computers, (LRU), to be loaded by a data loader. The connection concerns ARINC 429 bi-directional buses and discrete associated Load Enable lines. The number of connected LRUs can grow up to 26.

The purpose of the DLRB is to do maintenance operation of target LRU on board the aircraft. The DLRB operates only in ground condition. In flight, inactive state is automatically entered.

The DLRB is controlled by an internal processor board. It contains a saved data base which stores the name of all addressable target computers. This data base can be updated by using the data loader and selecting the DLRB itself in the list of targets. So, it is possible to configure or reconfigure the system in compliance with aircraft configuration or update.

ARINC 615 protocol is used for updating DLRB data base from the data loader.

Equipment is provided with BITE capability for maintenance purpose and to assure good reliability of functional state of system. A discrete input on the DLRB is used for triggering BITE computation on request. A discrete output provides the BITE state.

The main functions of the DLRB are:

switching the data loader ARINC429 bus to the desired LRU bus, including LOAD ENABLE outputs.
interfacing with the operator through the DLS (LCD display, PREV, NEXT and SEL keys).
reading the ON/OFF and AIR/GND discrete inputs to determine its functional state (active or inactive).
uploading its data base on request.
triggering its self-tests on CFDIU request and expressing BITE result on its NOT HEALTHY output.
communicating with the maintenance terminal or test bench.

** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL

9. BITE

A. DLRB BITE Test

The function of the Built-In Test Equipment (BITE) is to monitor the operation of the DLRB and DLS (via the DLRB), analyze and confirm faults but these faults are not stored in the Non-Volatile Memory (NVM). The DLRB/DLS is a type 3 system.

The CFDIU triggers DLRB/DLS self-test sequence through a discrete input. The DLRB outputs the resulting BITE status on an output discrete (this result includes BITE of DLS).

The DLS self-test is done by the central unit of the DLRB. The BITE capability of the DLS is passive and consists of informational status bits. These bits are available by the way of the RS422 line.

Self-test is systematically done at power-up sequence regardless of the TEST and ON/OFF discrete inputs. However, aircraft ground configuration is required (i.e.: AIR/GROUND signal).

The DLRB BITE performs the following functions:

acquisition of discrete input signals
communication with the DLS (via RS422) and CFDIU (via a discrete output).

The BITE has two basic functions:

power on self-test
test result.

B. Maintenance message

NOTE: When the failure occurs on the DLRB, BITE test result gives this maintenance message

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

MAINTENANCE MESSAGE CLASS INT/EXT ATA REF

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

DLRB(102TD)/DLS(101TD) - - 31-38-34

C. MDDU BITE Test

The MDDU is a type 2 system with the following particularity: the CFDIU to MDDU ARINC 429 link required for the loading of several reports is used to activate the MDDU test instead of a wired discrete.

(1) Aim

The aim of the MDDU BITE is to provide a maintenance aid.

Its function is to:

permanently transmit current system status (available or not available)
store the faults that occurred during the last or current flight leg
centralize the results of the tests initiated or the self-test
dialog with the CFDIU via the menus
transmit the results of the test requested by the CFDIU
transmit the MDDU identification code to the CFDIU.

(2) General Operation

(a) Normal mode
This mode consists in cyclically interrogating the MDDU boards on their status and initiating self-tests when operating anomalies appear, transmitting the information to the CFDIU and, in the case of fault detection, storing the fault in the fault memory.

(b) Menu mode
This menu mode only operates on the ground and consists in a dialog between the MDDU and an operator via the MCDU of the maintenance system.

The menu mode for the MDDU is composed of:

a LAST LEG REPORT
a TEST
a CLASS 3 FAULTS

(3) Test

The MDDU has 3 types of test:

(a) power-up tests performed at power-up

(b) the test initiated from one of the MCDU of the maintenance system.
To perform this test, a test disk must be inserted in the MDDU. This disk is stored, with those used for data loading, in the flexible panel of the coat stowage. If the disk inserted in the drive is not a test disk, the INVALID DISK/MDDU

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

!POWER-UP TEST!- I/O ARINC 429 !- CFDIU INPUT ! !- AT POWER- !

! ! BUSES !- ATSU INPUT ! ! UP !

! !- EPROM ! (IF INSTALLED) ! !- POWER IN- !

! !- SRAM ! ! ! TERRUPTED !

! !- DISCRETES ! ! ! > 5 S AND !

! !- DMAC ! ! ! A/C ON !

! !- FDDC ! ! ! GROUND !

!-------------!-------------------!-------------------!----------!------------!

!TEST FROM !- I/O ARINC 429 !- CFDIU INPUT ! !- BY MCDU !

!MCDU ! BUSES !- ATSU INPUT ! ! MENU AND !

! !- EPROM ! (IF INSTALLED) ! ! TEST DISK !

! !- SRAM ! ! ! !

! !- DISCRETES ! ! ! !

! !- DMAC ! ! ! !

! !- FDDC ! ! ! !

! !- FDD ! ! ! !

!-------------!-------------------!-------------------!----------!------------!

!PERMANENT !- I/O ARINC 429 !- CFDIU INPUT !PERMANEN- !NONE !

! ! BUSES !- ATSU INPUT !TLY ! !

! !- EPROM ! (IF INSTALLED) ! ! !

! !- SRAM ! ! ! !

! !- DISCRETES ! ! ! !

! !- DMAC ! ! ! !

! !- FDDC ! ! ! !

! !- DISK ! ! ! !

! !- EEPROM ! ! ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following table defines the list of messages that can be transmitted to the

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

! ATA ! MESSAGES ! FAULT ! TYPE ! DETECTION !

! REF ! ! CLASS ! INTL !--------------------------!

! ! ! ! EXT ! POWER-UP ! TEST ! PERM !

! ! ! ! ! TEST ! FROM ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! MCDU ! !

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

!313834 !MDDU (1TD) ! 1 ! I ! Yes ! Yes ! Yes !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

!313834 !MDDU (1TD) BUS 1 ! 1 ! I ! Yes ! Yes ! Yes !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

!313834 !MDDU (1TD) BUS 3 ! 1 ! I ! Yes ! Yes ! Yes !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

!313800 !DISK/MDDU(1TD) ! 1 ! I ! No ! Yes ! Yes !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

!313234 !CFDIU(1TW)/MDDU(1TD) ! 3 ! E ! Yes ! Yes ! Yes !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

!462134 !ATSU(1TX1)/MDDU(1TD) ! 3 ! E ! Yes ! Yes ! Yes !

! !(IF ATSU INSTALLED) ! ! ! ! ! !

!----------!------------------------!-------!------!----------!-------!-------!

[Rev.10 from 2021] 2026.04.01 00:36:28 UTC