ARINC, Boeing demonstrate Multi-Frequency Auto-Tune for NextGen communications

Posted by John McHale

ANNAPOLIS, Md., 21 Jan. 2011. ARINC demonstrated a Multi-Frequency Management (MFM) auto-tune capability for VDL Mode 2 (VHF Digital Link Mode 2) communications, in testing with Boeing (NYSE:BA). The ability to manage VDL traffic is a key step in the Data Communications Program for the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Next-Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen).

During the tests ARINC used newly developed ground station and radio technologies from its five-year communications system modernization program. The technologies were installed in Boeing facilities at Boeing Field and Paine Field in the Seattle area.

The companies demonstrated auto-tune of an aircraft, from the VDL common signaling channel to an alternate VDL frequency, and back to the common signaling channel. The auto-tune command is the primary building block to instruct aircraft to tune to VDL frequencies, which enables service providers to actively manage traffic load among VDL frequencies.

ARINC is able to generate VDL Mode 2 frequency management commands from its VDL Mode 2 ground stations to support airframe manufacturer lab and flight tests. This capability permits interoperability field testing between airframe manufacturers and ARINC to validate the multi-frequency management capabilities of avionics as specified in AEEC ARINC 631.

"We are excited about reaching this critical milestone in the advancement of our VDL Mode 2 technologies. This industry first represents another major step for ARINC in the evolution to VDL Mode 2 and Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN) communications," says Peter Grogan, senior director, ARINC GLOBALinkSM Services.

"ARINC greatly appreciates working with Boeing to validate the interoperability of our VDL ATC communications system," says Scott Malone, director, ARINC GLOBALink Engineering. "In the months following the auto-tune demonstration, Boeing and ARINC successfully tested the interoperability between ARINC and Boeing production aircraft to be able to perform all VDL multi-frequency management capabilities, as specified in ARINC 631. This testing will advance VDL technologies for greater use in airline operational and air traffic safety communications."