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ARINC 653 RTOS for Multi-Core Certification

Whitepapers, Avionics & Defense

The ARINC 653 specification, managed by Aeronautical Radio Inc. (ARINC), is a crucial standard in the aviation and avionics industries. The ARINC standards that play a significant role in avionics are the 600 and 700 series whereas the 600 series serves as the reference standards for Avionics equipment specified by the ARINC 700 series, which outlines the form, fit, and function of Avionics equipment primarily on transport aircraft.

ARINC 653 is an evolving standard designed primarily for Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA). It complements ARINC 651, the Design Guidance for IMA. Historically, IMA was implemented without a high-level Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) due to the stringent software integrity requirements for DO-178 Design Assurance Level (DAL) A. The IMA concept has evolved from individual systems with single functions to fully centralized IMA processing, enabling pilots to control flight systems and safety features through digital control sticks and high-speed data buses like Avionics Full Duplex Ethernet (AFDX) and ARINC 429.

Next-generation IMA systems are exploring technologies such as ARINC 653 RTOS, certified to DO-178C DAL A, and new data bus generations capable of handling high bandwidth data in a safe and deterministic manner. PikeOS and other RTOS are already certified or undergoing certification for DAL A projects, and ARINC 653 continues to evolve to meet the industry's multi-core requirements. These advancements promise safer and more efficient airborne platforms in the future.

Download our whitepaper to learn more about ARINC 653 and its applications.


Download the Whitepaper