IEC 62396-1 Updated for Avionics

IEC 62396-1, “Process management for avionics – Atmospheric radiation effects – Part 1: Accommodation of atmospheric radiation effects via single event effects within avionics electronic equipment,” has just been revised.  The new Edition 2.0 is available from Document Center Inc. in paper format, for pdf download, as a redline version, and as part of our Standards Online multiuser subscription!  Changes are extensive, so if you use this management standard be sure to order your copy now from an authorized distributor like Document Center.

What is IEC 62396-1?  The standard describes the ionizing radiation environment that electronics will be subjected to when in use in aircraft.  Since this type of radiation can affect electronics, the standard provides general approaches to dealing with those effects.  And yes, the standards world is also reviewing the effects of this type of radiation on passengers and crew, even though this standard does not address this issue.

Who should be using IEC 62396-1?  It’s written specifically for avionics systems designers, electonic equipment manufacturers, component manufacturers and their customers.

What will I find in IEC 62396-1?  The standard provides guidance for what’s called “single event effects.”  It describes the details of the radiation environment and the problems this atmospheric radiation can cause.  It shows you the appropriate methods for quantifying single event effect rates in electronic components.  You’ll learn how to expand your system safety methodology to include these rates.  And you’ll be able to demonstrate the suitability of your products for this type of application both at the component and system level.

What’s been changed in the Edition 2.0 for IEC 62396-1?  Of course, Edition 2.0 cancels and replaces Edition 1.0 from 2012.  It is a technical update and the changes are extensive.  The committee does provide you with general guidance on the changes in the foreword to the publication.  However, your Redline Edition will have every detail clearly marked and will be a useful purchase for all serious users of the standard.

The committee points out the following updates:

  • Clause 7 is for guidance only, with the references to level A Types I and II removed.
  • Definitions have been updated.
  • New technology has been added to Annex G.
  • Expansion of concepts for the proposed parts IEC 62396-6, IEC 62396-7 and IEC 62396-8  (solar flares and extreme space weather for the Part 6 in 5.6, atmosphic radiation effects analysis in the system design process in 7.1, and the addition of new particles in 6.2.10 for Part 8).
  • A new Annex H has been added.
  • Changes to 5.3 and 8.2 have been made, as well as clarification to calculating event rates in specific situations.

So now you realize that you need a copy of this new revision.  Head to Document Center’s webstore and order online at www.document-center.com.  Here’s the direct link to the order page for IEC 62396-1.  Have more questions, want a subscription, or prefer to work with a person?  Contact our staff by phone (650-591-7600) or email (info@document-center.com).  We’ve been working with standards since 1982.  Make us your Standards Experts!

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Claudia Bach

Claudia Bach is the President of Document Center Inc. and a world-wide recognized expert on Standards and Standards Distribution. You can connect with her on Google+

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