Performance testing based on time complexity analysis for embedded software

Architecture design and software implementation both contribute to the correctness of ultimate software products. So performance testing is very helpful to test the inconsistence between design and implementation since it is the mix reflection of both sides. Especially in embedded system, with limited resources, execution time is more likely to expose hidden defects. This research presents a time performance analysis method for software testing. Firstly, software modules were divided according to functionality in architecture view, and their time complexity were computed in static; Secondly, testing activities were designed to track running time cost of those modules; Next, expected time complexity was compared with actual running time to figure out abnormal function modules defects resident. Lastly, experiments were conducted in an embedded software project. The results showed time performance testing is an efficient way to find out some kinds of defects concerned with the inconsistence of design and implementation.