MIL-STD-1553 is a military standard that defines the mechanical, electrical, and functional characteristics of a serial data bus with the aim of reliably transmitting data. Brian Conway, Product Manager at Cinch Connectivity Solutions, stated that this standard, also known as Milbus, has been incorporated into almost all types of US military vehicles manufactured over the past 50 years because designers know that connectors that comply with MIL-STD-1553 standards can work. It was originally designed as an avionics serial multiplexed data bus for military aircraft and has become common in space applications such as spacecraft, the International Space Station, and the onboard data processing subsystem of the James Webb Space Telescope. MIL-STD-1553 is now commonly used for integrating defense and space systems, and is increasingly being used in the commercial aerospace industry.

The specification developed by the US Air Force for the aviation electronic data bus became the official standard of the Air Force in 1973 and was first used for the F-16 Falcon fighter jet. This bus and MIL-STD-1553 specification were later adopted by other departments of the US Armed Forces and became the basis for the bus standards used by the UK and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). NASA has also standardized the bus for onboard data processing (OBDH) systems on spacecraft.

The first revised version MIL-STD-1553A was released in 1975. Due to different methods of implementing revised versions by suppliers, the product is incompatible. To address this issue, MIL-STD-1553B was released in 1978, allowing for manufacturing differences but specifying strict electrical interfaces.

The MIL-STD-1553 system consists of a bus controller (BC), remote terminal (RT), and bus monitor (BM). BC is the only part of the system that can initiate data transmission, which is a key factor in system reliability.

The PEI Genesis blog article explains that the data bus coupler acts as an interface point on the data bus and distributes signals between various subsystems. This standard outlines the physical layer of dual redundant and balanced lines; The bus controller initiates all communication. Each bus supports up to 31 remote terminals, providing input and output interfaces for the data bus, as well as one or more bus monitors that passively collect data without affecting bus operations. These devices are connected to the bus through a branch called a stub. Other key components of this standard include terminators, which maintain signal integrity, prevent reflection, and ensure stable communication by absorbing signals that reach the bus terminal; Durable shielded twisted pair cables and specialized connectors designed to withstand the environmental challenges of military operations; And adapters, which are interface devices that facilitate communication between avionics systems in aerospace and military applications.

PEI Genesis' Cinch Tromperer connectors, cables, terminators, and adapters are carefully designed to comply with the strict MIL-STD-1553 standard established by the US Department of Defense for data bus communication systems in military and aerospace applications

In the Flight Control System (FCS), the high-speed and reliable digital bus of MIL-STD-1553B ensures fast and error free data transmission, thereby achieving dynamic flight stability, as the combination of cockpit commands and sensor feedback directly facilitates real-time and automatic adjustment of flight parameters.

The unified communication framework seamlessly integrates data from GPS, radar, and inertial navigation systems. This integration enables the aircraft to accurately calculate its position, direction, and speed. In addition, the powerful error checking mechanism of this standard helps ensure that the positioning data is always reliable.

In aviation electronic navigation systems, MIL-STD-1553B provides a unified communication framework that seamlessly integrates data from GPS, radar, and inertial navigation systems. This enables the aircraft to accurately calculate its position, direction, and speed. In addition, the powerful error checking mechanism of this standard helps ensure the continuous reliability of positioning data.

Radiall's RTX screw in miniature connector operates at a low frequency of DC-5 MHz and is designed for use in digital data buses defined by the MIL-STD-1553B standard in digital avionics equipment. RTX interface complies with AECMA EN3716 standard

Axon Cable specializes in designing and manufacturing all components used in data transmission systems that comply with MIL-STD-1553 standards. From communication systems to flight control equipment, signals are transmitted through reliable links that comply with MIL-STD-1553 standards. They provide high data security, signal integrity, good electromagnetic protection, weight and space savings, as well as fast diagnostics for all devices connected to the bus

Standard:The extensive testing and qualification process ensures compliance with MIL-STD-1553B requirements and guarantees interoperability and compatibility with other components within the data bus network.

Installation:A dual redundant system is required, with two signal paths, one main signal transmission line and one backup signal transmission line. All connectors and RF cables (which together form the main physical layer of the system) must strictly meet all requirements.

Transmission Protocol:Time division multiplexing (TDM).

Material Science:High quality materials ensure high reliability, and dual axis cables (with a pair of twisted wires) can eliminate electromagnetic fields to form radio frequency shielding.

Environmental characteristics:The equipment must be sturdy and durable, capable of withstanding harsh environments, including temperature range and lifespan, impact resistance, and moisture resistance. Polarization, keying, and optional sealing ensure proper mating and prevent signal loss or damage.

Electrical characteristics:The device operates at a low frequency, below 500 megahertz (MHz).