VADRE: A Visual Approach to Performance Analysis of Distributed, Real-time Systems

Distributed, real-time, and embedded (DRE) systems are becoming increasingly complex, and as a result, performance analysis of such systems is becoming increasingly difficult. Current profiling tools are ill-equipped to analyze DRE system performance, primarily due to the distributed nature of these systems. We have begun to address this problem by forging the first in a suite of tools that we call VADRE: Visual Analysis of Distributed, Real-time, and Embedded systems. Like a CAT scan for distributed systems, these tools will provide a simplified and highly visual means of inspecting and understanding a system's performance.To demonstrate the feasibility and potential benefits of VADRE, we have developed the first tool in the suite. Called Jango, it is specialized for the CORBA domain. It can automatically collect timing data from a CORBA-based distributed system and display a timeline of remote method calls. With input from the user, it can run a basic deadline checking algorithm, revealing precisely when and where a deadline is missed. This technique simplifies and quickens the process of testing a distributed system for adherence to real-time constraints. As a case study in validating the capabilities of Jango, we have applied it to a robotic DRE control system and discuss the results here