Embedded UML Target Debugger

Even software modeled in UML isn’t always free from errors. Therefore, debugging remains one of the key tasks in software development. In the context of so-called embedded systems, the hardware used is often proprietary, and some of the errors probably occur only when the software is executed on this hardware. In addition, many embedded systems have to manage limited hardware resources (e.g. memory). When debugging with conventional CASE tools, it is possible to execute the code generated from the model and to animate the model simultaneously. The program behavior can thus be monitored at model level. To this end, run-time information has to be generated on the target system and transmitted to the development PC which is usually handled through so-called code instrumentation. However, there is a major disadvantage to this approach. The code to be executed is unnecessarily loaded with overhead which considerably slows down the actual run-time.  A debugging solution is now available that is compatible with Embedded UML Studio™ and based on a monitor like conventional embedded high-level language debuggers. It offers the benefit of real-time debugging with minimum overhead at UML model level.



UML Target Debugging

One advantage of MDD (Model Driven Development) is that models can be tested and debugged at an early stage, usually based on simulation. According to experience, this method helps to identify numerous errors in early process phases. In many cases, however, errors occur later when the code generated from the model is executed on the actual hardware. 

Another disadvantage of simulation is the need to provide all external interfaces required for the simulation procedure which can be quite laborious. With the UML Target Debugger™, the model can now also be executed on the actual hardware. All required run-time information is provided through a monitor at model level. Thus, animation takes place at model level in parallel to model execution. 

In addition, information can be transferred from the development PC to the target system, so that UML based tests can be automated on real hardware, e.g. with TestConductor.

 

Benefits: 


No code instrumentation required
Code instrumentation affects the run-time and results in high code complexity. 

Can be used as diagnostic tool in service applications
The new technology minimizes the overhead for animation on the target system and is thus highly suitable for service and start-up applications. 

Based on the technology of the market leading UML tool Rhapsody®  

Highly optimized for use in systems with limited resources 

Target specific code is delivered in source code 

Deterministic real-time behavior
Other than with instrumented code, the new technology does not affect the run-time behavior.

 

Further details:

  • For information on supported target platforms, please visit  
    willert.de/supported-targetplatforms
  • Warranty: 12 months 

  • No royalties if the monitor is integrated in the product


Requirements and knowledge for an efficient use of the product:

  • Experience in using 'C' for embedded systems (efficient use of compiler/linker)
  • Adequate knowledge of the target platform used ('C' start-up configuration, memory mapping, … )
  • Knowledge of OO architecture design. Participation in our ‘Embedded UML Start-Up Training’ would be the
    perfect basis       
  • Please note:
    The product Embedded UML Target Debugger is an add-on for Embedded UML RXF™ and can 
    only be used in this connection

             

 

Rhapsody® is a registered trademark of IBM® Rational®

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