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This paper describes the use of electrical design analysis software to automate electrical design analysis techniques such as failure mode and effects analysis and sneak circuit analysis. It illustrates the type of reports that an automated electrical analysis can produce and compares them with those produced by an engineer unaided. The main advantage of the electrical design analysis software is that it significantly reduces the amount of effort needed to complete a competent design analysis report. This makes it possible to perform design analysis much earlier in the design process, at a stage where it is still relatively cost-effective to resolve problems.

In recent years the number of electronic systems fitted to road vehicles worldwide has increased, with further growth forecast. Many such systems are appearing in safety-critical or safety-related applications. An objective assessment of the integrity of the systems is necessary to ensure that the safety of the driver, occupants and other road users will not be compromised. Certain disciplines associated with reliability, namely environmental validation, failure mode and effects analysis and software verification and validation are examined. The need for a coordinated approach to system integrity is discussed, and the development of European standards and guidelines described.