represented by block 107 in the drawings the controller analyzes the signals relating to pilot demand and the brake to evaluate a brake performance signature indicative of how the brake is performing this brake performance signature could be compared against the signature for a heat pack in as new condition alternatively over a period of time a record of a brake 39 s performance can be built up that will allow statistical analysis showing trends in the brake performance signature and allow the controller to predict an expected signature for a given brake application where deviations from the expected signature occur the controller would be able to identify potential brake problems that might have caused the variation problems identified could then be signalled to an on board maintenance computer 105 capable of alerting the crew or ground maintenance staff alternatively or additionally data from the controller could be downloaded from a data port by ground staff during routine maintenance or pre flight inspection such a port 106 could also be accessed by the brake supplier for downloading information about brake service including number of brake applications and type of brake application this service information could be used on its own or in combination with condition monitoring data for brake life prediction and or commercial purposes such a brake management controller could also manage the auto braking function of the braking system in the system of fig6 the extent of heat pack.