Flight data recorder

The flight data recorder (FDR) refers generically to a class of recorders used to record specific aircraft performance parameters. The term is also sometimes used to include the Cockpit voice recorder (CVR). Although popularly known to be used for aircraft mishap analysis, the FDR is also used to study air safety issues, material degradation, and jet engine performance. An FDR is often referred to as a "black box". The term "black box" is borrowed from engineering, and refers to a device whose inputs can be manipulated, and whose outputs can be observed, but whose internal mechanisms are unknown.http://www.site.uottawa.ca:4321/oose/index.html#black-boxtesting These ICAO regulated "black box" devices are often used as an aid in investigating aircraft mishap, and these devices are typically one of the highest priorities for recovery after a crash, second only to bodies of victims. The device's shroud is usually painted bright orange and is generally located in the tail section of the aircraft.

Related Topics:
Aircraft - Aircraft mishap - Air safety - Material degradation - Jet engine - Black box - Engineering - ICAO - Orange

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~