This whitepaper is meant to open discussion on these topics, but it is not to be construed as official guidance regarding DO-254 application to IP cores or systems on chips. Similar topics are the subject of the joint US and European DO-254 User Group papers, which are directed to influence policy making in both of these subject areas. The methods that are presented in this white paper should be discussed with the appropriate avionics certification personnel prior to application on any avionics program.

This white paper highlights ambiguities in the interpretation of DO-254 with regard to FPGA developments, including various types of IP, e.g., COTS IP, with recommendations for practical approaches for addressing these issues. It does not describe basic DO-254 compliant processes—rather it covers the broader issues related to the application of DO-254 to IP for FPGA designs. The target audience is certification authorities, designated engineering representatives (DERs), designers, managers, and IP developers.