DAMES program update: methodology, test results, and impact

The testing methodology that has evolved under the demonstration of avionics module exchangeability via simulation (DAMES) program, the program's accomplishments in the areas of specification analysis and compatibility issue resolution, and some insights into the impact of DAMES accomplishments on the Department of Defense electronic systems procurement process are described. Test development in DAMES is defined as the process by which a comprehensive test suite is developed from an English-language specification. The DAMES specification breakdown process defines a methodology by which a complete set of requirements is extracted from a given specification. The DAMES program allows for testing and evaluation of the effectiveness of JIAWG specifications prior to fabrication. The evaluation is performed through gate-level system simulation of contractor designs using the DAMES methodology. This methodology allows for the demonstration of the effectiveness of current specifications and designs in their support of interoperability and exchangeability. The value of simulations is that they reveal problems and issues that could not be identified through the JIAWG open forum process, thus supporting and enhancing the process.<>