Time-saving targets.

Though the software that runs automotive electronics is getting exponentially more complex and time-consuming to develop, the pressure on programmers to produce robust code quickly is mounting. So, a product that allows code to be produced in less time at lower costs is a very welcome thing, The MathWorks (Natick, MA) is introducing two such products: embedded targets for the OSEK/VDX real-time operating system environment, and for the Motorola HC12 microcontroller. The new targets cut time from the development of complex embedded systems by allowing engineers to automatically generate and utilize code in mass production ECUs rather than manually creating and integrating it. MathWorks says that in addition to reducing software design cycles by weeks or months, the new targets save money by allowing developers to test new functionalities on existing production vehicles instead of requiring expensive rapid prototyping systems. This means that engineers can perform more design iterations earlier in a vehicle's development program resulting in more robust code and a focused validation process.