Power Input Testing
Section 10: Environmental Qualification (DO-160)
Definition
DO-160 Section 16 (Power Input) defines tests that evaluate equipment behavior under the range of power supply conditions encountered on the aircraft electrical bus, including normal voltage range, abnormal voltage conditions (overvoltage, undervoltage), power interruptions, voltage transients, and frequency variations (for AC equipment). The equipment must operate correctly within the normal power envelope and must not be damaged by abnormal power conditions.
Where This Shows Up
Power input testing verifies compatibility with the aircraft electrical system, which can exhibit significant voltage variations due to generator regulation characteristics, load switching transients, and fault conditions. DC power tests typically cover the nominal 28 VDC (or 14 VDC) bus with variation ranges defined by the applicable category, plus voltage spikes and power interrupt profiles. AC power tests cover nominal 115 VAC 400 Hz (or variable frequency) with voltage, frequency, and waveform distortion variations. Equipment must not draw excessive inrush current or introduce unacceptable disturbances back onto the aircraft power bus.
Primary Sources
Section 16 (Power Input) — defines normal and abnormal power input conditions, test categories, and procedures.
Related Terms
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