Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for controlling synchronous and asynchronous communications in an avionic network. The method includes receiving one or more asynchronous messages and one or more synchronous messages, allocating each of the synchronous messages to a corresponding predetermined time slot while producing an unoccupied portion in at least one of the predetermined time slots, and allocating the asynchronous messages to one or more of the unoccupied portions of the predetermined time slots.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for redundant switched communications among end users in a network. The apparatus includes an interface for coupling to a corresponding end user, a first channel for processing a communication from the end user, a second channel for processing the communication, and a multiplexer coupled to the interface and the first and second channels. The multiplexer selects at least one of the first and second channels to transmit the communication. The method includes receiving a data communication via first and second switches, each of the first and second switches having first and second channels, and routing the data communication through at least one of the first and second channels of the first and second switches.

Abstract: A backshell for forming an electrical connection with a cabinet, the backshell including at least one electrical connector, a deflection arm coupled to one end of the backshell for engaging a cam on a cabinet which holds a receiving connector, and a fastener on the opposite end of the backshell from the deflection arm. The deflection arm provides a clamping force when the fastener is fully engaged, and helps form a strong mechanical connection.

Abstract: A backshell for forming an electrical connection with a cabinet, the backshell including at least one electrical connector, a deflection arm coupled to one end of the backshell for engaging a cam on a cabinet which holds a receiving connector, and a fastener on the opposite end of the backshell from the deflection arm. The deflection arm provides a clamping force when the fastener is fully engaged, and helps form a strong mechanical connection.

Abstract: An interface method and system for interfacing a DC unbalanced databus with a DC balanced databus suited for use in an aircraft. The system includes a DC unbalanced databus and a controller coupled to the DC unbalanced databus. An alternating DC unbalanced voltage differential signal is transmittable from the controller to a first transformer which is coupled to the controller. The alternating DC unbalanced voltage differential signal may be stepped-up and DC balanced by the first transformer to create a DC balanced voltage differential signal. A transmitter is coupled to the first transformer, where the transmitter comprises a high power differential voltage driver. The DC balanced voltage differential signal may be stepped up by the transmitter to a high drive current signal. A second transformer is coupled to the transmitter, and at least one DC balanced databus is coupled to the second transformer. A waveform shaping network may be coupled between the second transformer and DC balanced databus.

Abstract: The present invention is a backplane for printed circuit board modules. The backplane includes first and second redundant, signal transmission channels. Multiple pairs of substantially identical first and second connectors are mounted on the backplane. The first connector of each of the multiple pairs is connected to the first channel and the second connector is connected to the second channel. The first and second connectors each have a long dimension and a short dimension, and are positioned on the backplane with the first connector above the second connector and with the short dimensions of the first and second connectors being most proximate. Modules connected to the second connectors of are oriented substantially 180° opposite to the modules connected to the first connectors. This allows modules on the first channel to be quickly discerned from the modules of the second channel.

Abstract: A communications system capable of providing enhanced data integrity and reliability through redundant buses, and a network interface controller for use therewith. Redundant conductors conforming to well-known ethernet standards interconnect electronics components. Each component communicates with the conductors through a single network interface card (NIC). Each NIC comprises an ethernet compliant transceiver for each ethernet conductor in communication with the component. Microcontrollers embedded in each NIC synchronously and deterministically place data on the ethernet conductors according to a timing scheme stored in a non-volatile memory means. A heartbeat/power monitor is also provided to ensure that data cannot be transmitted in the event of a microcontroller failure. The communications system provides a high degree of redundancy and fault-tolerance and is therefore well-suited to critical applications in avionics communication.