ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a summary of the document RTCA DO-178B, Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification,1 with commentary on the most common mistakes made in understanding and applying DO-178B. The joint committee of RTCA Special Committee 167 and EUROCAE* Working Group 12 prepared RTCA DO-178B** (also known as EUROCAE ED-12B), and it was subsequently published by RTCA and by EUROCAE in December 1992. DO-178B provides guidance for the production of software for airborne systems and equipment such that there is a level of confidence in the correct functioning of that software in compliance with airworthiness requirements. DO-178B represents industry consensus opinion on the best way to ensure safe software. It should also be noted that although DO-178B does not discuss specific development methodologies or management activities, there is clear evidence that by following rigorous processes, cost and schedule benefits may be realized. The verification activities specified in DO-178B are particularly effective in identifying software problems early in the development process.
