Scope of SAE AS6003

This SAE Aerospace Standard (AS) establishes the specification for the TTP communication protocol functionality as a core networking component of synchronous, time-driven distributed real-time systems. This document is referred to as the base specification, containing the generic specification of TTP protocol functionality, media access, communication services, and protocol state machines with transitions, TTP node operation, TTP network operation, datalink layer and frame formats, distributed clock synchronization, and error detection on the network layer.

Physical layer (AS) standard for TTP-based systems will be handled in a separate document later in the standardization process.

Rationale for the Creation of the Standard

TTP is used in a variety of aerospace applications such as electric and environmental control systems for Boeing 787, the cabin pressure control system for Airbus A380, and Full Authority Digital Engine (FADEC) controls for Aermacchi M-346 and Lockheed Martin F-16 , and continues to attract significant cross-industry attention for commercial and defense application.

The SAE standardization should support creation of larger COTS ecosystem, protect system design investments, and reduce long-term components sourcing risks for OEMs, integrators and system suppliers.

Planned Standard Release

in about two years, TTP specification available from TTA-Group since 2001 will be translated into a SAE standard document. Standardization process will progress in quarterly meetings supported by SAE AS-2D committee members. The process is expected to be completed and standard released by SAE before the end of 2010.

More information on TTP can be found on the IHS website.