Real-time systems : theory and practice

Although real-time systems are becoming increasingly important they are often so embedded that we fail to notice them even while interacting with them. An important characteristic of real-time systems is that their correctness is time- dependent. Examples of such systems range from safety-critical ones, such as nuclear reactors and automotive controllers, to entertainment software such as games and graphics animations. The growing importance of real-time systems has made it a core area for computer science, electronics and communication, as well as electrical engineering students. This book is designed to serve as a textbook for both graduate and post-graduate level courses on real-time systems. It can also serve as a reference for practicing engineers. The presence and use of real-time systems is becoming increasingly common. Examples of such systems range from nuclear reactors, to automotive controllers, and also entertainment software such as games and graphics animation. The growing importance of rea