Multi-function display:

The primary flight instruments can all be displayed simultaneously on one reasonably easy-to-read video monitor much like the flat panel displays in laptop computers. These displays are called primary flight displays (PFDs). You must still cross-check around the panel and on the display, but more information is available in a smaller space in easier to read colors. These convenient displays receive data from sensors such as magnetometers or magnetic flux valves to determine heading referenced to magnetic north. The attitude (pitch and roll) of the aircraft is sensed by the attitude heading reference system (AHRS) and displayed as the attitude gyro would be in conventional instrumentation. The altitude, airspeed, and outside temperature values are sensed in the air data computer (ADC) and presented in the PFD on vertical scales or portions of circles.
The multi-function display (MFD) can often display the same information as the PFD and can be used as a backup PFD. Usually the MFD is used for traffic, route selection, and weather and terrain avoidance. However, some PFDs also accommodate these same displays, but in a smaller view due to the primary flight instrument areas already used in the display. You must learn and practice using that specific system.

It is important to be very careful in the selection (programming) of the various functions and features. In the event of failures, which have a large impact on flight safety and situational awareness, you must always be ready and able to complete the flight safely using only the standby instruments.

A multi-function display (MFD) (part of multi function structures) is a small screen (CRT or LCD) in an aircraft surrounded by multiple buttons that can be used to display information to the pilot in numerous configurable ways. Often an MFD will be used in concert with a primary flight display. MFDs are part of the digital era of modern planes or helicopter. The first MFD were introduced by air forces. The advantage of an MFD over analog display is that an MFD does not consume much space in the cockpit. For example the cockpit of RAH-66 “Comanche” does not have analog dials or gauges at all. All information is displayed on the MFD pages. The possible MFD pages could differ for every plane, complementing their abilities (in combat).

Many MFDs allow the pilot to display their navigation route, moving map, weather radar, NEXRAD, GPWS, TCAS and airport information all on the same screen.

MFDs were added to the Space Shuttle (as the glass cockpit) starting in 1998 replacing the analog instruments and CRTs. The information being displayed is similar, and the glass cockpit was first flown on the STS-101 mission.

In modern automotive technology, MFDs are used in cars to display navigation,