Use of modern processors in safety-critical applications

This paper investigates the implications of using modern superscalar processors in the safety-critical domain. Firstly, a description of current certification practice and devices is given as background. This is followed by an exposition of the certification argument for a processor when used in a safety-critical application. Throughout the presentation of the argument two types of modern processor are considered, Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) processors and purpose designed bespoke devices. This allows the elaboration of positive and negative features of processors that can be used as part of the selection (for COTS) or design (for bespoke) process.