Reliability prediction, in the conceptual phase, of a processor system with its embedded software

A method has been developed to predict the software reliability in processor applications based on concept parameters and assumptions such as processor/computer architecture; language; sizing and timing; design/development history (of the design team); and software and hardware failure history. These concepts are organized into a rigorous methodology leading to a reliability prediction for each system concept analyzed. The predictions can then be compared for tradeoff analyses. A cost benefit analysis methodology to permit the predictions technique to analyze for optimum hardware and software configurations and to enhance the return on investment is presented