”On Real-Time Systems and Processor Architecture”

Abstract

This report discusses the impact of hard real-time systems requirements on microprocessor performance. Certain dependability aspects are alse considered although

not covered in detail. Therefore we discuss hard real-time systems and microprocessors from an architectural point of view as well as system hardware design. The

architectural considerations assume an event triggered hard real-time system with kernel software. The hardware considerations treat a space qualified computer system

compared to a general purpose application.

Hard real-time systems are intended for use in environments where dependability is a primary design goal. For the majority of common microprocessors, high performance has been the primary design goal. However, a primary design goal such as high performance introduces conflicts with a design goal such as dependability. It is also clear that a hard real-time system implementation that utilizes a high performance RISC CPU does not necessarily benefit from the high execution rate that the microprocessor offers.

Keywords: Hard real-time systems, dependability, microprocessor architecture