IData Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IData® Tool Suite?
The IData Tool Suite, developed by ENSCO Avionics, is an integrated, platform-independent environment that accelerates the design, development, deployment and certification, of human–machine interface (HMI) displays for safety- and mission-critical avionics applications. IData allows engineers to design certifiable displays, such as primary flight, navigation, and synthetic vision systems, without writing code.
Who uses IData?
IData was developed by avionics engineers for avionics engineers, display developers, and simulation specialists working on commercial and military flight systems that require DO-178C certifiable HMI displays. It supports both embedded and simulation environments, enabling seamless reuse of display designs across multiple platforms.
What makes IData different from other HMI tools?
IData uses a data-driven architecture instead of traditional code generation. This allows designers to “Design Once, Deploy to Many” targets, reducing certification costs, improving portability, and eliminating the need to rewrite OpenGL code for each platform. This unique structure minimizes development risk and simplifies re-certification when design changes occur.
Is IData DO-178C certifiable?
Yes. ENSCO Avionics developed the IData Runtime and IDataMap Runtime under DO-178C-compliant processes. The IData Certification Kit includes full lifecycle documentation that helps customers achieve DO-178C certification faster and more efficiently.
What is IDataMap?
IDataMap is a DO-178C-certifiable 2D/3D digital mapping module included within the IData suite. It enables developers to add customizable moving maps, terrain and situational awareness, and synthetic vision capabilities to cockpit displays while maintaining compliance with safety-critical standards.
How does IData accelerate avionics certification?
By combining model-based design, open architecture, and a data-driven workflow, IData eliminates manual OpenGL coding and provides certifiable artifacts early in the design cycle. This significantly reduces life-cycle costs, certification time, and risk, especially for systems requiring recertification after updates.
Does IData support MOSA, FACE, or ARINC 661 standards?
Yes. IData and IDataMap are built to align with major open systems approaches such as MOSA and industry standards, FACE, ARINC 661, and OpenGL SC 1.0/2.0. This ensures portability, interoperability, and longevity in safety-critical environments.
What are some common IData applications?
- Primary Flight Displays (PFDs)
- Standby Flight Displays (SFD)
- Multi-Function Displays (MFDs)
- Horizontal Situation Indicators (HSIs)
- Engine Indication and Crew Alerting Systems (EICAS)
- Flight Management Displays (FMS)
- Digital Moving Maps
- Synthetic Vision (SVS)
- Terrain Awareness and Warning Displays (TAWS)
- Enhanced Vision Systems (EVS)
- Training and Simulation Systems
- Command and Control Interfaces
What are the benefits of using IData over hand-coding OpenGL?
IData eliminates the need for hand-coded OpenGL by automatically generating standardized, optimized runtime data. Developers and non-programmers can produce high-quality, certifiable graphics in an intuitive WYSIWYG environment. This promotes team collaboration, reduces maintenance costs, and accelerates certification.
Is IData platform-independent?
Yes. IData’s runtime and data-driven architecture support multiple operating systems, processors, and GPUs, including Windows, Linux, and embedded targets. This flexibility enables faster deployment across diverse avionics platforms without re-architecting the system.
How does IData support rapid prototyping?
IData allows real-time testing and pilot-in-the-loop prototyping without requiring system reboots or recompilations. This capability helps engineers validate human factors and performance early in the design cycle, saving time and ensuring mission success.
How can I get started with IData?
Contact ENSCO Avionics to schedule a demonstration or request information on the IData Tool Suite and certification support services.