Real-Time Networks - Rationale and Practice

Speaker: Hugo Simpson

28th May 2003 , 3pm , Room 519 Claremont Tower

Abstract

System architecture is arguably the most important factor in determining whether a computing system can be economically developed, and then be relied upon to meet its specified requirements. The real-time network architecture is specially formulated to cope with the development of large, embedded, distributed, and dependable real-time systems. In this context, a large system is one requiring 100s of man years for its development. The principal features of the architecture will be described, together with the history of its evolution over some 35 years of practical application. Special attention will be given to the intercommunication data area (ida) concept. An ida is a multi-threaded component for process interaction which distinguishes the real-time network approach from other methods. A family of protocols for defining the dynamic properties of an important class of ida types will be described. The talk will conclude with an account of some recent and current applications, and opportunities for further research and development will be identified.