Any device leaving the production line and intended for operation cannot leave the factory without proper testing. For electronics used by millions of people, there is no margin for error. The consequences of using a malfunctioning device may inflict damage and impact safety. Such cases often echo for a long time, put the company in the spotlight, and draw attention to the problem of improper product development.
Railway systems are one example of interconnected devices which encompass a variety of electronic equipment. The safety-critical aspect of railway operation creates a need for rigorous verification procedures to make sure that the margin for error is kept to a minimum.
System composition and standards
In the area of signaling systems, a distinction should be made between the system’s elements. Equipment may span purely mechanical parts or devices composed of hardware, laid out on electronic boards and including electronic components. On top of that, programmable components and microprocessors run code, elevating the layer of system abstraction.
The system design phase lays emphasis on ensuring that the characteristics of the system are reflected in its components. For instance, vehicle wheels or rails need to match specific requirements and material properties. Modern and advanced signaling systems such as ETCS require precise development. They are composed of multiple subcomponents that follow in-house development, are provided by OEMs or utilize off-the-shelf solutions.

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