Conference Presentations

Finding Firmware Defects

Embedded systems software presents a different breed of challenges to the test professional than other types of applications. Hardware interfaces, interrupts, timing considerations, resource constraints, and error handling often pose problems that aren't well suited to many traditional testing techniques. This presentation discusses some of these problems, and the techniques and strategies that are the most effective at finding software bugs in embedded systems code.

Sean Beatty, High Impact Services Inc
Automated Testing Framework for Embedded Systems

Is it possible to use an "open architecture" automation test tool to avoid the pitfalls of testing in the embedded, real-time world? It is now. In this session, Michael Jacobson presents an architecture that allows existing testing tools to be connected together as components in an automated testing framework targeted for embedded systems using network communications. He shows you how existing testing tools can become servers with just a couple lines of code. You'll even learn how each component can be changed and tested without requiring an update to the rest of the components, as long as interface communication is maintained.

Michael Jacobson, Northrop Grumman Corporation
Introduction to Usability Testing

What is usability? Why is it important? If these questions wake you in the middle of the night, then this presentation is for you. Cheryl Nesta discusses the relevance of usability testing within the broad framework of quality assurance and appropriate expectations based on its uses and applicability. Explore methodology, process flow, goal identification, and definition. Real-world examples create a hands-on introductory experience.

Cheryl L. Nesta, Vanteon
A Framework for Testing Real-Time and Embedded Systems

What do we mean when we say local, remote, simultaneous, and distributed testing? Alan Haffenden of The Open Group explores the differences, and explains why the architecture of a distributed test execution system must be different from that of non-distributed systems. An overview of POSIX 1003.13 profiles and units of functionality helps advanced users build a good foundation for testing both their real-time and embedded systems.

Alan Haffenden, The Open Group
Performance Testing 101

Organizations are often so eager to "jump in" and use load testing tools that the critical steps necessary to ensure successful performance testing are sometimes overlooked-leading to testing delays and wasted effort. Learn the best practices and tips for successful automated performance testing in areas such as assembling a proper test team, planning, simulating a production environment, creating scripts, and executing load tests.

David Torrisi, Mercury Interactive
Wireless Application Testing

Putting the Web on cellular phones, PDAs, and other wireless devices is all the rage. Still in its infancy, the idea of doing online transactions via mobile devices has created a new buzzword: "M-Commerce." However, some companies in their quest to be first-to-market have overlooked the fact that this new technology is still in need of basic testing for quality, performance under load, and usability. Discover the importance of testing wireless applications, and learn how to identify common bottlenecks and problems.

Scott Moore, CommerceQuest
Thinking About People, Process, and Product: A Principle that Works at Work

All projects involve the three P's: people, process, and product. People includes everyone who influences the project. Process is the steps taken to produce and maintain software. Product is the final outcome of the project. To keep these three in harmony, you must observe who is trying to do what to deliver what. Usually, two of the three P's are mandated, and the third one is chosen appropriately. Although this is common sense, it is not common practice. Dwayne Phillips discusses the issues and challenges that affect us all on every project. Learn about the ideas and questions to consider to help you work through these issues.

Dwayne Phillips, U.S. Department of Defense
Predictive Metrics to Estimate Post Project Costs

How much will it cost to support your software project based on current estimations? Discover the answer to this question by using statistical estimation methods-including the S-curve and the Rayleigh curve-to help you determine where your projects are in relation to required quality and trendings to meet your post-project cost goals. Learn how to use metrics to predict post-project costs and make better release decisions based on these predictions.

Geoffrey Facer, Intel Corporation

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