The Collins IDC-900 integrated data link controller uses ARINC 429 to interface to aircraft systems. The unit operates as a multifunction control display unit (MCDU) for aircraft interfaces to various peripherals such as the CMU-900, SATCOM, ACMS, etc. The IDC-900 is ARINC 739 compatible.

The IDC-900 control display unit (CDU) design is based on the ARINC-defined MCDU characteristics which provide complete access to aircraft systems. The CDU utilizes a large, multicolor liquid crystal display (LCD) allowing for display information.

The display is an active matrix LCD with a viewing area of 4" x 3". Data is shown in six colors: cyan, yellow, magenta, white, green or red. Contrast ratio is 20:1 or greater for viewing angles from 35 degrees left to right and +20 to -40°. Maximum display brightness is 85 FL.

The fixed page format consists of 15 lines of 24 characters each. The page structure is comprised of title line, six label-data line pairs positioned adjacent to left and right line select keys, a data entry line called the scratchpad and an annunciation line.

All manual entries via the CDU keyboard appear on the scratchpad prior to data field entry to allow pilot verification of data. Data may also be copied into the scratchpad from any CDU page. The scratchpad is independent of all page displays. Therefore, page changes do not affect data displayed on the scratchpad.

The bottom display line is an annunciation line, reserved for the display of messages requiring crew awareness or action.

Actuation of the data entry keys sequentially writes the respective alphanumeric character on the scratchpad, left to right.

Six pairs of line select keys border the display. The line select keys are not dedicated keys. Their function is assigned by software depending on which CDU page is currently displayed.

Dedicated keys ease operation by providing most frequently needed functions at the touch of a button.

When the Bright/Dim (BRT/DIM) key is pushed, it acts as a toggle. The display either brightens or dims and continues as the key is held. When the key is immediately pushed again, the intensity does the opposite of the previous push.

Multiple statuses of the IDC-900 are available with different combinations of radio tuning functionality. This feature solves the pedestal space issues by removing current dedicated radio control panels.

Specific versions/statuses of the IDC-900 support the use of weather graphics and/or video. Optional graphics capability will support weather graphics via compatible service providers. Capabilities such as North Atlantic winds, temperatures aloft, composite radar images centered on US Station 1.0, regional radar similarities with tops and movement, regional weather replications, regional infrared satellites, or regional high-level significant weather can be displayed on the IDC-900. Video capability supports standard NTSC video input for display on the IDC-900.