Ada tool to framework interface for avionics integrated project support environments

It is pointed out that integrated project support environments (IPSEs) will be critical to the acquisition of future avionics systems. IPSEs provide an environment in which tools can work effectively together to support avionics system projects for the total software development life-cycle. The main strength of IPSEs includes interoperability and the portability of tools, databases, and personnel from one environment to another. This results in higher-quality avionics systems, on schedule and within cost, CAIS-A and PCTE+, two major IPSE interface standards, are being converged into a single interface standard. This standard, called the portable common interface set, (PCIS), is intended to be the backbone of future DoD IPSEs for the development of avionics systems. The motivation behind interface technology as it pertains to the development of avionics software is addressed. Some of the technical issues associated with the convergence of the CAIS-A and PCTE+ specifications to produce the PCIS are discussed.<>