User's Manual

Airbus Iridium SATCOM System
165E5733-00 L-3 Aviation Recorders Proprietary
Issue, Rev. 02
21 January 2014
Page 16
2. DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
This section describes the system operation and architecture.
2.1 System Overview
The Airbus Iridium SATCOM System provides multiple voice and data communications functions in
the aircraft. The Automated Flight Information Reporting System (AFIRS) provides a satellite voice
and data communications (SATCOM) link with the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) via
the Iridium
®
satellite network. The system uses a standard ARINC 741/761 SATCOM interface to the
flight crew’s Audio Integrating System and ARINC 739A Multi-Purpose Control and Display Units
(MCDUs) in the cockpit, as well as providing 3-extension Public Branch Exchange (PBX) capability for
up to 2 handsets in the cabin.
Figure 2-1 – Airbus Iridium SATCOM System Operational Concept
The Airbus Iridium SATCOM System provides a dedicated safety-services data channel with the
capability to send and receive standard ACARS messages between the aircraft’s Air Traffic Service
Unit (ATSU) and a safety-services certified terrestrial service provider.
2.2 System Architecture
The Airbus Iridium SATCOM System consists of modular avionics components that can be tailored to
meet customer needs. The core system components are the Satellite Data Unit (SDU), the SDU
Configuration Module (SCM), and the Iridium Antenna (see Figure 2-2). Optional components include
Cabin Handset(s) (Wired or Cordless).