Adapting Ada toolsets to embedded multiprocessing applications

The problem of developing system software for embedded multiprocessing applications is aggravated by resource-sharing and fault-tolerance requirements and by the immaturity of support tools. The author proposes additional standards for Ada toolsets used in embedded applications which will address these problems in an integrated manner. He examines opportunities for support from the compiler toolset, describes several such opportunities, and presents arguments for their use in the design of executive-layer capabilities. These capabilities include unit sharing, software interrupts, and custom program initiation and termination code tailoring. It is emphasized that executive software will not have to duplicate the synchronization primitives that are already built into Ada. A philosophy for distributed executive design is discussed.<>