Airborne Electronic Hardware
AEHSection 09: Hardware Certification (DO-254)
Definition
Electronic hardware items (circuit board assemblies, components, programmable logic devices, and associated wiring) that perform functions in airborne systems or equipment. AEH is distinct from software and is subject to its own assurance processes under DO-254/ED-80.
Where This Shows Up
AEH encompasses everything from simple analog circuits to complex programmable devices such as FPGAs and ASICs. The assurance level applied to AEH is driven by the failure condition classification of the function it supports, as determined through system safety assessment processes per ARP 4761 and ARP 4754A.
Primary Sources
Design Assurance Guidance for Airborne Electronic Hardware, Section 1.6 — defines the scope of AEH and the applicability of hardware design assurance.
RTCA, Inc., Document RTCA/DO-254 — FAA advisory circular recognizing DO-254 as an acceptable means of compliance for AEH design assurance.
EASA acceptable means of compliance referencing ED-80 for hardware design assurance.
Artifacts Produced
Document that identifies all AEH items within a system, their design assurance levels, and applicable certification considerations.
Related Terms
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