components of different origin interchangeable and decouples them from the continuous advances of IT platforms. This secures investments in tools and processes for the long-term. ASAM uses common description methods for the technology definitions in the standards: Format description: defines syntax and semantics of a file format for the purpose of data exchange. API: defines the interface and functional behavior of executable routines for the purpose of calling service routines or exchanging data between computer programs. Protocol definition: defines syntax, semantics and synchronization of the communication via a bus for the purpose of establishing a communication link between computer systems. Technology reference: specifies a technology-dependent interpretation of the technology-independent parts of the standard, typically via mapping rules or program code. Application area companion: defines an extension of a base standard for a specific application area or a specific type of device. Transport layer specification: defines how a generic protocol definition is to be interpreted using a concrete physical layer. ASAM has subdivided the standards into three groups, which are briefly described in the following tables: AE: Automotive Electronics CAT: Computer Aided Testing COMMON: Common standards shared between AE and CAT ASAM AE ASAM AE standards (Automotive Electronics) are primarily applied during the design and implementation phases of ECU software development (left side of the V-Model). They focus on: design of functional and interface specifications for software components carrying out measurement, calibration and diagnostics tasks on an ECU automation of HIL tests description of engineering artifacts exchange of engineering issues ASAM CAT ASAM CAT standards (Computer Aided Testing) are primarily applied during the verification & validation phases of ECU software development (right side of the V-Model), and during automated calibration and system testing on engine and vehicle test beds. They focus on: automated calibration storage of testing data evaluation and analysis of testing data ASAM COMMON (Common) ASAM COMMON standards are used in both areas, AE and CAT. Further reading R. Bartz. Grundlagen und Einsatz von ASAM-Standards. 2001. Expert-Verlag. C. Marscholik, P. Subke. Road vehicles - Diagnostic communication - Technology & Applications. 2008. Hüthig Verlag. . W. Zimmermann, R. Schmidgall. Bussysteme in der Fahrzeugtechnik. 2010. Vieweg + Teubner Verlag. C. Marscholik, P. Subke. Datenkommunikation im Automobil. 2011. VDI Verlag. References External links Professional associations based in Germany Automotive standards