Real-time software development in multiprocessor, multifunction systems

It is pointed out that the real-time requirements placed on embedded avionics systems are large and, to avoid costly redesigns of the code (especially during integration and test of the system), a sound development strategy during the design of the system is paramount. The use of systems analysis, both manually and via simulation, will help guarantee the success of the hardware/software partnership. The Integrated Communication, Navigation, Identification, Avionics (ICNIA) system is considered as a model for the development. The real-time interaction of multiple functions running in the ICNIA multiprocessor system is examined. The critical importance of developing a system simulation that can provide timing and sizing data is demonstrated. If the simulation is developed early in the program, there is a valuable opportunity to keep it up to date and use it effectively in static and dynamic systems analyses. These analyses are critical for system optimization and, in turn, are the key to efficient time and resource expenditure. The data provided by the simulator are most valuable during the integration and test phase of the project