Purpose of this Report

This document sets forth the desired characteristics for a "carry-on" data loader intended for use with airborne computers installed on commercial transport aircraft. The data loader employs a 3-1/2 inch disc as the transport medium. This document provides general and specific design guidance for the development of a portable data loader (PDL) for carry-on application and an airborne data loader (ADL) for on-aircraft installation. The primary function of the data loader will be uploading data and operational programs on airborne computers. A secondary capability of the data loader is downloading data from airborne computers on the 3-1/2 inch magnetic medium. This document describes the desired capability of the equipment and the standards necessary to ensure interchangeability of the 3-1/2 inch magnetic disc medium. Form and fit interchangeability is not needed for the PDL but is desired for the ADL.

Equipment manufacturers should note that this document aims to encourage them to produce maintenance-free high performance equipment rather than that of minimum weight and dimension. They are at liberty to accomplish this objective by means of design techniques they consider to be the most appropriate, as their airline customers are interested primarily in the end result rather than the means employed to achieve it.