All-digital jets are taking off: Aboard developmental commercial and military aircraft, digital electronics score high in compactness, control flexibility, and reliability

The key attributes of second-generation digital avionics systems are discussed. These are: increased integration, allowing more functions in less space; increased reliability through redundancy of components and systems and augmented fault-tolerance capabilities; and an improved man-machine interface, including such features as flat panels and voice controls. Examples of increased integration include more efficient data buses that cut down on wiring and connectors, and an inertial reference system and an air-data computer combined into one line-replacement unit. The author describes several commercial and military aircraft with emphasis on the European Airbus Industrie A-320, which will be the first commercial aircraft to use second-generation digital avionics. This 150-passenger, medium-range airliner is schedule to enter service in the spring of 1988. Issues in fault tolerance and improved aircraft control are included.