C#

C# (pronounced: C-sharp) is an object-oriented programming language developed by Microsoft. It is widely used to build a diverse range of applications, including desktop software, web applications, mobile apps, games, and cloud-based services.

Designed to be simple, powerful, and versatile, C# runs on the .NET framework, which provides a comprehensive platform for cross-platform development. In the context of safety-critical systems, C# may be used to develop supporting software, making its features—such as strong typing and managed memory—relevant to overall software quality and reliability.

C# is used across a wide spectrum of software development. For desktop environments, it is commonly paired with Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) or Windows Forms to create robust and interactive applications.

In safety-critical domains such as the automotive industry, while core embedded systems typically rely on C or C++, C# is often used for developing tools, simulation environments, or high-level components of in-vehicle infotainment systems that interface with safety-critical elements.

Although C# is not typically the primary language for deeply embedded safety-critical code, it can be used in or alongside safety-critical development with careful consideration. Features like automatic memory management and strong type checking can help reduce certain types of errors, but they also introduce specific challenges for functional safety. The reliance on the .NET runtime adds complexity that must be thoroughly validated and verified if any part of the C# application directly affects safety functions.

In the context of standards such as ISO 26262, if C# components are part of a system with an assigned Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL), the development process must demonstrate compliance. This may involve applying specific coding guidelines, performing static analysis, and conducting rigorous testing tailored to both the language and the .NET runtime environment.

C# is relevant to functional safety standards beyond ISO 26262, particularly in industries where software plays a critical role in system operation. For example, in industrial automation governed by IEC 61508 or in medical devices where software safety is essential, C# may be used to develop human-machine interfaces (HMIs), diagnostic tools, or higher-level control applications.

While C and C++ are often preferred for hard real-time embedded systems, C# is a viable option for less time-critical yet safety-relevant components. In such cases, the development process must align with the applicable safety standard, which typically includes disciplined development practices, use of static and dynamic analysis tools, and restrictions on certain language features or runtime behaviors that could introduce unpredictability. The core principles of verification, validation, and traceability apply to C# software just as they do to software written in other languages.

Whether you're working with C#, C++, or other languages, Validas helps to ensure your tools meet the rigorous demands of standards like IEC 61508, ISO 26262, and more.