Methodology for the interface optimization of the embedded program code

Many embedded software systems are produced for mass-markets, for example, controllers for the automobile industry or mobile phones. The production cost of an embedded system mainly depends on the size of RAM, ROM and runtime. The parts of an embedded system that are influenced by the software are RAM, ROM and the microcontroller. Even small cost savings of the hardware resources such as RAM, ROM and runtime that are consumed by the software will reduce the production cost of the embedded systems when products are produced for mass markets. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the resource consumption (RC) of the software. In the context of this thesis work, a method to measure the RC of interfaces is provided. To enable the measurement of RC, models were developed. A set of guidelines for reducing the RC is developed. These guidelines are intended to be helpful during the design and implementation phase of the embedded software development process. The main objectives of this work are: 1. To point out different implementation possibilities for interfaces and consequences with respect to resource consumption 2. To determine and to compare the resource consumption of the implementation possibilities for different pairs of processor/compilers 3. To provide guidance which will help in reducing the resources that are consumed by the interfaces