Modeling radio-frequency front-ends using sysML: a case study of a UMTS transceiver

Numerous engineering fields are nowadays dealing with complex systems. The analysis, design, testing and maintena nce of such systems are crucial challenges. For this purpose, the OMG propo sed SysML, an extension of UML, in order to address the issues of modeling complex systems in different engineering domains. This standard enable s the elaboration of efficient tools allowing automated analysis, verification and validation of systems. The radio-frequency front-end's design is one of engine ering fields which would benefit from such a technology to enhance the effic iency of the design and manufacturing process. In this paper, we discuss th e provision and the limitations of both UML and SysML. We also present a case study consisting of the modeling of a Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) transceiver using SysML and we discuss the advantages and the drawbacks of such a technology from the designer's point of view .