To meet the performance requirements of several current generation avionics system under development requires the use of fiber optic networks. Fiber optic components are ready to meet the performance requirements and the environment associated with these systems, but significant risk remains in the logistics and support policies defined for these systems. Fiber optic components have not been proven to be maintainable in an aircraft environment, and significant work remains to define procedures and policies that support the use of fiber optics on aircraft. This program will define key technologies and produce guidelines to lower the supportability risks associated with aircraft fiber optics integration. Research efforts will analyze reliability and integrity aspects of selected fiberoptic components, and provide installation guidelines that support long term failure free operation. Approaches for testing fiber optic systems on the flight-line will be devised, along with methods for fault detection, isolation, and location. Repair methods will be surveyed and appropriate approaches suggested. This effort will allow appropriate methods, procedures, and guidelines to be developed for supporting fiber optic components in harsh, maintenance intensive environments.
