5
3
Introduction
3.1 Product Description
The Cabin Wireless Access Point (CWAP) is a network distribution system designed specifically for
commercial airborne applications. The CWAP complies with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n wireless standards
utilizing a Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) wireless access point in the appropriately assigned radio
frequency spectrum to facilitate wireless communications to other personal and aircraft devices. The
CWAP provides a bridge between IEEE 802.3 wired Ethernet LANs and IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n compliant
wireless networks.
The CWAP is provided with aircraft level discrete inputs and outputs to facilitate event notification and
equipment status to and from other aircraft systems, including remote control ON/OFF. The product is
equipped with an avionics wide frequency (360-800Hz) power supply unit with a 200msec holdup
capability for power interruptions. The CWAP requires no active cooling system, and has capabilities for
built-in diagnostics reporting. The CWAP is designed to comply with the general requirements identified
in Section 8 (Cabin Wireless LAN Unit) of the ARINC 763-3 Specification. The unit communicates to a
host server by physical connection over wired 10/100/1000Base-T interfaces.
3.2 Functional Block Diagram
Figure 1 contains an overview of the CWAP functional structure and interfaces
Figure 1 - Functional Block Diagram
Block ID
Functional Block
Description
1
Signal Interface Board
(SIB)
Provides the interface for the four discrete external I/O signals; 115Vac, and
RS232 signals. Also includes under temperature turn-off circuitry.
2
Power Supply (PSU)
Converts 115Vac input power to the proper DC voltages required by the I/O
and Radio Boards. Provides power supply and radio power status to the I/O
Board.
3
Radio Board
Provides the access point interface between the 2.4 and 5 GHz antenna
interfaces,
Table 1 - Functional Block Diagram Table
