Course content

The course is taught every second year, next time autumn 2014.

Topics are: Modelling with state diagrams (discrete state continuous time Markov chains) and stochastic Petrinets. Modelling of systems with distribution, fault-tolerance and co-operating software objects. Pros and cons of methods with respect to problems addressed. Analytical methods for state based systems, included system times, the rate of (rarely occurring) system failures, measurement of interval availability and availability guarantees, truncation of state spaces. Simulation techniques to provoke rare events like importance sampling and splitting.

Learning outcome

A. Knowledge:
1) A good understanding of the opportunities, methods and challenges in modeling, analysis and design of reliability in information and communication technology (ICT) system, where both hardware, software and networks are included.
2) In depth knowledge on how to deal with conditions that are specific for (highly) dependable ICT systems like rarely occurring events, decisions based on few observations and handling of large unstructured state spaces.
3) Basic knowledge of simulation of rare events.

B. Skills:
1) Manage to full the terminology and theoretical concepts in dependability area.
2) Be able to establish models for communications technology (ICT) system by means of continuous time, discrete state space Markov models and stochastic Petrinets (Stochastic Activity Networks).
3) Master approximate analysis techniques with truncation of large state spaces.
4) Master the approximate analytical methods to determine the distribution of short term measures like interval unavailability.

C. General competence:
1) Improved insight into the relation between application and economic aspects and the dependability of ICT systems

Learning methods and activities

Colloquiums/interactive lectures, where it is expected that the students have familiarised themselves with the topic on beforehand. Optional exercises. If there are more than 4 candidates a written exam will be considered. If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may be changed from written to oral.

The grading rule is pass/fail. The minimum passing grade is 70/100 points (70%).

Recommended previous knowledge

Knowledge of the design of dependable/fault-tolerant systems. Fundamental knowledge of dependability modelling and analysis, including the use of discrete state continuous time Markov models. These topics are covered by e.g. the course TTM4120 Dependable systems.

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

Journal and conference papers, etc. Announced at the beginning of the term.

Credit reductions