Pilot interface
Interface consists of rotary knob and a few dedicated keys for dedicated functions such as direct-to. The interface requires pilot remembering functions and how to activate them.
More sophisticated FMS provide a CDU with alphanumeric keyboard. These FMS have multiple function keys that may be used for dedicated task, such as radio tuning, direct-to, etc.

Flight deck interface
No minimum requirement today.
Able to tune radios
Provide information for driving displays for non-essential functions (Airshow)
Initialization of sensors

Interface to flight deck printers

Data Link
This section discusses exiting datalinks used by aviation.

ACARS
The Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) was developed and implemented for the aviation industry by ARINC (Aeronautical Radio Inc.) in the mid 1970’s. It was designed to cut down on flight crew work load by utilizing computers on board aircraft and at ground facilities to exchange routine reports and messages. It consists of an air/ground network which enables aircraft to automatically transfer information from onboard sensors by VHF radio link to ACARS ground facilities. It is then relayed via the ground stations to a central computer processor where the data is converted into inter-airline operational messages.
The Management Unit (MU) onboard the aircraft receives ground to air messages from the radio transceiver and controls the transmission of air to ground transmissions. It is also connected to sensors onboard the aircraft. These sensors provide automatic Out, Off, On, and In time reporting (OOOI). Off and On events are typically recorded using sensors connected to the aircraft’s landing gear. In and Out events are usually triggered with the opening or closing of the passenger doors, or the release or application of aircraft brakes. The GMT of these events are recorded and transmitted to the ground.

AFIS
Automated Flight Information System is manufactured by AlliedSignal. AFIS provides the ability for the flight crew to transmit and receive textual information. This consists of flight plans, weather, air traffic control clearances, and messages. This information is displayed either on a dedicated AFIS display or another display capable of interfacing to AFIS (such as an FMS).
AFIS interfaces to the airborne radiotelephone or SATCOM installed on the aircraft. Using modem technology, AFIS places a telephone call to the Global Data Center and connects to a modem. The requested data is transmitted and stored onboard the aircraft. This data is then available for display on board the flight deck.

Airshow GENESYS

Airshow GENESYS is an existing system installed on may business aircraft today and is manufactured by Airshow, Incorporated (website is www.airshowinc.com). The GENESYS system provides text and graphics for aircraft flight deck and cabin displays. The flight deck display usually consists of approximately a 6” LCD monitor mounted on the center pedestal or next to the co-pilot. This display is capable of displaying the following data when requested by the flight crew:
　
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