In today’s aviation industry, the reliability of onboard electronic equipment is critical. Aircraft systems often face irregularities in power supply, especially in variable frequency AC power systems. Recognizing the need for high-reliability performance under such conditions, Envitest Laboratories has developed strong capabilities in conducting abnormal frequency variation testing as specified in RTCA DO-160, Section 16 – Power Input.

RTCA DO-160 is a globally recognized standard for testing airborne equipment. Section 16 focuses on how well electrical and electronic devices can withstand disturbances in power input, including frequency variations from the nominal 400Hz commonly used in aviation systems. As aircraft technologies evolve, particularly with the growing use of variable frequency power systems, this test has become more critical than ever.
At Envitest Lab, we conduct abnormal frequency variation tests to evaluate the endurance and operational stability of aviation-grade electronics. Our lab is equipped with programmable AC power sources capable of simulating a wide range of frequency deviations—including sudden shifts and gradual drifts across operational boundaries. These advanced setups ensure accurate replication of real-world power anomalies that occur in flight or during ground operations.
Our testing methods are fully aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, ensuring test traceability, repeatability, and technical integrity. We validate equipment not only for compliance but also for functional reliability under stress. Each test cycle includes close monitoring of performance parameters and failure indicators, giving manufacturers actionable insights into product robustness.
Clients across the aerospace, defense, and avionics sectors rely on Envitest for their power input testing requirements. With deep expertise in interpreting RTCA standards and custom-configuring test setups, we support manufacturers in accelerating product development while maintaining full compliance with regulatory and safety requirements.
Envitest’s commitment doesn’t end with simply passing the standard—we work to help our clients understand and improve their systems’ resilience against power fluctuations. Our collaborative approach, technical depth, and modern infrastructure make us a trusted partner for qualification testing in the aviation sector.
When your electronic systems must perform reliably in the most demanding power environments, Envitest Lab stands ready to deliver the testing confidence you need.