Ready for Take off: How Embedded Peripherals Elevate Modern Aircraft Systems

Electronics are the central nervous system of today’s modern aircraft. Every flight control input, engine reading, and cabin sensor is a critical signal flowing through this network. The integrity of these signals is non-negotiable, and that's where the quiet work of embedded peripherals becomes critical.

How Aircraft Controls Evolved

A single commercial airliner is made up of more than six million parts, but older planes carried far fewer electronic components. In the early days of aviation, pilots had to physically move the control surfaces of an airplane through a system of cables, pulleys, and levers. Pulling the yoke or moving the pedals literally meant pulling on heavy mechanical parts. Flying required not only skill but also considerable physical strength.

Today’s aircraft work very differently. Instead of direct mechanical linkages, pilot inputs are converted into electronic signals that travel through computers and sensors. These digital systems then command the wings, engines, and other components with far greater accuracy. The result is a system that is lighter, more precise, and far less tiring for pilots compared to the old cable-driven designs.

But this shift from mechanical effort to electronic precision brings new challenges. Modern avionics must perform reliably amid constant vibration, electromagnetic interference (EMI), pressure changes, and temperature swings. At the same time, limited cockpit and cabin space often leads to dense wiring, which makes both installation and maintenance more complicated.

In this kind of environment, reliable data transmission and straightforward maintenance are essential for avionics, passenger services, and safety systems. 

That is exactly where Innodisk’s Embedded Peripheral (EP) modules provide clear value—ensuring stable performance while also simplifying integration and upkeep in complex systems.
 

LAN Modules: The Cockpit’s Communication Hub

A multi-node wired network that connects devices for data exchange. Innodisk LAN modules  (Local Area Network) support speeds of 1GbE, 2.5GbE, and 10GbE, feature compact designs for embedded systems, and include built-in Ethernet isolation transformers for stable signals and reduced interference.

Inside the cockpit, flight management systems (FMS) need to connect with displays, avionics, and ground stations to exchange navigation and flight data. A stable LAN connection ensures that pilots receive accurate and timely information.

The EMPL-22S2 LAN module, built with Intel® i210 controllers, provides dual isolated ports for multi-channel networking. Its compact design reduces wiring complexity and helps maintain stable performance even in high-interference environments.

Serial Modules: Keeping Power Flowing to Every Seat

The modules enable machines to interact with sensors, controllers, and other units to exchange data and control signals. Depending on the protocol, connections can be point-to-point, single-master multi-drop, or multi-master multi-drop. Innodisk serial modules support all of these modes on the same hardware interface. Mode changes can be done via software, eliminating the need to manually reconfigure pin assignments.

Modern passengers expect to charge devices, stream entertainment, and stay connected while in the air. Behind these conveniences is a complex power management system that requires reliable communication.

The EMP2-X4S1 serial module enables RS-485 communication between the aircraft’s main power controller and individual seat power boxes. This allows real-time power distribution and feedback, ensuring consistent and safe operation throughout the cabin.

CAN Bus Modules: The Muscle Behind Complex Systems

A robust serial communication protocol using multi-master multi-drop design with priority-based arbitration. CAN Bus (Controller Area Network Bus) enables real-time coordination across aircraft systems, synchronizing components and actuators. Innodisk CAN Bus modules provide customizable hardware–software integration and flexible connection options for different aviation applications.
 

Critical aircraft systems such as engines, wing flaps, spoilers, and landing gear depend on CAN Bus communication to synchronize operations. This ensures precise adjustments to lift, stable landings, and safe braking.

The EGUC-F2S3 CAN FD module delivers high data throughput along with features like CAN message acceptance filtering and listen-only mode. These functions enable fast and reliable coordination across multiple aircraft systems.

Powering Aviation with Confidence

Innodisk’s Embedded Peripheral (EP) division offers a range of expansion modules that connect different systems inside modern airliners. These modules stand out not only for their role in enabling seamless communication but also for the combination of shared technical advantages and value-added benefits that customers can count on.

Shared Advantages Across EP Modules
●    2.5 kV electrical isolation: Protects sensitive avionics from electrical surges and ensures stable signal integrity.
●    ESD resistance up to 15 kV (air) / 8 kV (contact): Safeguards modules against static discharge, a common risk in aircraft environments.
●    Wide operating temperature –40°C to 85°C: Maintains dependable performance under extreme temperature swings during flight.
●    Industrial-grade design for demanding environments: Engineered to industrial standards that meet the rigorous needs of civil aviation, and extend even further to space and defense applications for long-term reliability.

Value-Added Benefits
●    Faster time-to-market: Streamlined integration helps manufacturers and system builders deliver solutions more quickly.
●    One-stop solution: Innodisk not only offers LAN, Serial, and CAN Bus modules, but also provides a full portfolio of DRAM, Flash storage, embedded cameras, and integrated systems—delivering a truly comprehensive solution with guaranteed compatibility.
●    Reliable quality you can trust: Every product undergoes strict industrial-grade testing to ensure consistent performance in embedded systems, with a dependable warranty that provides long-term peace of mind.
●    Quick and responsive support: Dedicated technical support teams are ready to assist with integration and troubleshooting.

Equipped with dependable modules, every system works in harmony, every signal stays strong, and every journey lifts off with confidence. Partnering with Innodisk means you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight.

Related Products

1. EMPL-22S2
2. EMP2-X4S1
3. EGUC-F2S3

Disclaimer:
This article provides simplified illustrations of aviation mechanics and onboard charging equipment. The information does not constitute actual specifications and does not override applicable aviation laws or certified safety standards.