Mobile phones are real-time systems, with timing constraints on network communication, audio and data encoding/decoding. Ensuring that the timing constraints are met is necessary for satisfactory operation.

The embedded software for mobile phone platforms is constrained by cost, size and power considerations. Due to large production volumes, there is significant benefit in keeping hardware costs as low as possible. In this respect, software performance issues are particularly important. If the software can be optimised so that additional functionality can be added without the need for hardware upgrade, then there is significant commercial advantage. Further, if software can be optimised so that it meets timing constraints when the processor is clocked at a lower frequency, then there are positive implications for power consumption and hence battery life.

Leading companies in the telecommunications market recognise the benefits these improvements can bring, and are using RapiTime to obtain accurate timing information about their software, including worst-case execution times and detailed analysis of software components.