CompSize: Automated Size Estimation of Embedded Software Components

Paper in proceeding, 2011

Accurate estimation of Software Code Size is important for developing cost-efficient embedded systems. The Code Size affects the amount of system resources needed, like ROM and RAM memory, and processing capacity. In our previous work, we have estimated the Code Size based on CFP (COSMIC Function Points) within 15% accuracy, with the purpose of deciding how much ROM memory to fit into products with high cost pressure. Central in that work is the mapping between CFP and the information available early in the development process. We have previously defined a UML Profile capturing the information needed for CFP measurement and estimation of Code Size. The key idea was to extend UML components to contain all the necessary information. In this paper, we show how we developed a tool for automated estimation of Code Size based on our UML Profile. The tool is designed to permit Code Size estimation based on other UML diagrams than components. A case study evaluates the UML Profile and the tool in a realistic case.