777 optical LAN technology review

Abstract

The Boeing 777 is the first commercial jetliner to utilize fiber-optic local area network (LAN) technology for onboard data communication. Design specifications, technology constraints, manufacturing methods, test equipment, installation processes, and airplane repair processes all were determined, produced, and finally incorporated into the 777 optical LAN design. The tremendous success of the 777 optical LAN demonstrates the viability of fiber-optic technology for aerospace/avionics applications. Since its initial introduction on the Boeing 777, fiber-optic LAN technology has proven to be an excellent alternative to traditional copper based airborne network interconnect solutions.