Bustools (Analyzer Software)

Bustools is a databus analyzer software package devloped by the Condor Engineering company for use in analyzing and debugging data traffic on several common Avionics Databus communication systems. In most contexts, Bustools will be used with compatable hardware for the MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, and/or AFDX avionics databus.

The Bustools software is used in conjunction with a hardware interface in one of two environments: Laboratory or Operational:

Laboratory:
When designing and developing avionics databus systems, avionics engineers generally design a potential architecture, then test it in a simulation mode. This eliminates much of the risk of harm to personnel and property that could occur with actual flightline testing of unproven designs. In this scenario, a databus analyzer software package is used to simulate traffic on the bus and the actions, reactions and responses of the varios components on the network. In this capacity, the software is generally used with one or more multi-function avionics interface cards that can simulate multiple components that would appear in the actual flightline system.

Flightline:
When used to analyze and debug operational avionics systems, which are deployed in operational aircraft, Bustools will either be loaded onto a laptop or notebook PC and be carrier right onto the flightline. Using data interface points on the aircraft, a flight engineer will download a history of traffic crossing the avionics databus, usually using a PCMCIA interface to the relevant databus. Alternatively, data can be downloaded from the flightline and uploaded to a Bustools-equipped computer at a more convenient location for further analysis.

Bustools is actively supported by GE Fanuc Embedded Systems, which acquired Condor Engineering in early-2006. GE Fanuc Embedded Systems also supports the similar PASS avionics databus analyzer software developed by SBS Technologies following their acquisition of SBS in mid-2006