Avionics system manufacturers using complex devices such as FPGAs have to meet specific RTCA/DO-254 process objectives in order to receive system approval. DO-254 recommends that applicants define and follow HDL coding standards commensurate to the complexity of the FPGA design. It is allowed, and even suggested by the DO-254 Users Group, that linting tools be used to enforce HDL coding standards automatically - making the design review more effective, more reliable, and much faster.
The only requirement for DAL A and B is that the user must prove verification tools such as linters will detect errors in the design and functionally behave as intended. Following the Tool Assessment and Qualification process described under RTCA/DO-254 guidance, Aldec has enabled users to implement and run the Basic Tool Qualification process.
Aldec now offers the complete and customisable qualification package for the Basic Tool Qualification process.
The data package is customisable which means it is prepared to satisfy user requirements and proves that ALINT-PRO can enforce the user’s chosen coding standard, either the one included in ALINT-PRO or one the user has mapped into the tool. The package includes an automated test suite and comprehensive documentation. The only work the user need do is to run the test suite in its intendent environment and complete the documentation with tests result and environment information.
“This Qualification Package should greatly accelerate an applicant’s performance of the DO-254-required Basic Tool Qualification for ALINT-PRO,” said Tom Ferrell, Consulting FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER). “The rule-based tests are clearly defined and the flexibility built-in to the tool allows for clean and concise alignment to an applicant’s coding standard. Overall, a great addition to the DO-254 tool space.”
Janusz Kitel, DO-254 Program Manager at Aldec, added, “One of the most significant benefits of using ALINT-PRO to enforce coding standard is the huge amount of time saved when compared to performing a manual review. However, we want to save the user even more time, by not having to manually prove the tool works correctly, which can take a significant amount of time.”
Aldec continues to support DO-254 users in this area by providing the independent assessment path and tool qualification data packages for all of its tools used for DO-254 compliance including code coverage, HDL simulation, hardware test platforms and now linting with best-practice HDL coding standards.
“As a verification company we have always recognised the importance of verifying that our verification tools perform as intended,” added Kitel, “and the ability to prove and record that has always been present, though requiring a series of manual activities. Conscious of how precious time is for engineers working on projects requiring DO-254 certification and recognising that tool qualification may be a necessary but time-consuming activity, we believe our qualification packages are of great benefit.”
