RTCA/DO-160 Section 22

RTCA DO-160 Section 22 focuses on lightning induced transient susceptibility. The purpose of this testing is to establish the capability of the equipment under test (EUT) to withstand specific test transients specified within section 22. These tests simulate the effects of lightning and determine if the EUT will perform as intended when exposed to lightning while in use.

There are two groups of tests that can be used for equipment qualification. One is a damage tolerance test that is completed by using pin injection. The second one verifies the EUT's tolerance when transients are applied to interconnecting cable bundles. Cable bundle tests can establish the damage resistance of the EUT. This test is completed using single stroke, multiple stroke, and multiple burst response tests. When performing pin injection testing, the EUT is powered on as it would under normal operation to simulate typical use.

There are six different characters outlined in DO-160 Section 22 that are separated by the waveforms consistent with its expected use and aircraft installation:

1. Pin test waveform set letter (A or B)
2. Pin test level (1-5)
3. Cable bundle single and multiple stroke test waveform set letter C-K)
4. Cable bundle single and multiple stroke test level (1-5)
5. Cable bundle multiple burst test waveform set letter (L or M)
6. Cable bundle multiple burst test level (1-5)

Avalon Test Equipment carries a variety of equipment to meet DO-160 Section 22 requirements. Rent from Avalon and Test With Confidence®.

Contact us for more information or specific inquiries.