Avionics systems are currently undergoing a transition from single core processor architectures to multiple core (multi-core) processors. This transition enables a reduction in size, weight and power (SWaP) and the use of common processing platforms, providing multiple potential benefits for programs in terms of reduced costs, spares management and obsolescence. However, avionics hardware and software certification policies and guidance are evolving as research and experience is gained with creating certification evidence for multi-core processor architectures. 

Multi-core certification white paper

In the technical white paper, we discuss the following topics:

  • The unique challenges for using multi-core processors in certified avionics platforms
  • Collins Aerospace efforts related to creating a multi-core certification strategy and related certification evidence
  • The requirements for a commercial virtualization platform supporting multiple real-time operating systems (RTOS) partitions on a multi-core processor for use in systems requiring high levels of safety certification
  • The collaborative approach undertaken by Collins Aerospace and Wind River in the development of COTS certification evidence for a multi-core avionics platform that includes both software and hardware
  • The approach taken in order to achieve RTCA DO-178C DAL A safety certification on an FAA Program of Record 
  • The approach taken to comply with FAA CAST-32A objectives, including investigation of multi-core interference channels, documentation and analysis of results, as well as methods to support independent third party certification

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