Course overview
Structural coverage analysis confirms how thoroughly the code was exercised by requirements-based tests and exposes unintended functionality. SW-CERT-200 explains the coverage types and how they map to software levels.
Crucially, it shows how to achieve 100% structural coverage cost-effectively and how to handle coverage gaps, dead code, and deactivated code without inflating the program.
What you will learn
- Statement, decision, and MC/DC coverage and where each applies
- How structural coverage complements requirements-based testing
- Achieving 100% structural coverage cost-effectively
- Resolving coverage gaps, dead code, and deactivated code
- How coverage objectives vary by software level
Who should take this course
Verification engineers and software leads accountable for structural coverage evidence on DO-178C programs.
Recommended prerequisite: SW-CERT-120 — DO-178C SVP Setup & Verification Objectives
Course outline
- What structural coverage is for — confirming how thoroughly requirements-based tests exercised the code, and exposing unintended functionality.
- Coverage types — statement, decision and Modified Condition/Decision Coverage (MC/DC), and the software levels each maps to.
- Achieving 100% cost-effectively — planning tests and instrumentation so coverage is reached without inflating the program.
- Resolving gaps — distinguishing and handling missing coverage, dead code and deactivated code.
- Source-to-object considerations — why Level A may require analysis of code the compiler introduces.
How structural coverage maps to software level
Structural coverage analysis measures how completely the requirements-based tests exercised the code structure, and it is one of the most misunderstood — and most expensive — parts of DO-178C. The required rigor rises with the software level: statement coverage at Level C, decision coverage at Level B, and Modified Condition/Decision Coverage (MC/DC) at Level A. MC/DC in particular demands test cases that show each condition in a decision independently affects the outcome, which is where much of the effort and many of the misconceptions lie.
Equally important is what coverage gaps mean. Missing coverage can indicate inadequate test cases, dead code that should be removed, or deactivated code that must be shown to be disabled in the target configuration — and DO-178C treats each of these differently. Programs that plan coverage and gap resolution from the start avoid the classic trap of a verification phase that stalls chasing the last few percent. This course shows how to reach full coverage efficiently and defend the result at SOI #3.
What you will be able to do afterward
After SW-CERT-200 you will be able to select the right coverage criteria for your software level, plan testing to reach 100% structural coverage cost-effectively, and analyze and justify dead code, deactivated code and coverage gaps in a way reviewers accept.
How this course fits your certification path
SW-CERT-200 follows SW-CERT-120 (Verification) and pairs naturally with SW-CERT-240 (Data & Control Coupling); coverage tools usually require DO-330 / ED-215 tool qualification. For background, see our DO-178C explained guide. Prefer instructor-led? Explore our full DO-178C training courses.
How on-demand training works
Every ConsuNova module is delivered online and self-paced, so you can learn on your own schedule. Each purchase includes 30-day access with unlimited views and downloads for one user, and a certificate of completion is issued automatically when you finish the module.
Your instructors
This module is authored and delivered by ConsuNova’s senior certification authorities, giving you both FAA and EASA perspectives on compliance:
Provides FAA Designated Engineering Representative expertise on U.S. avionics certification.
Brings EASA Certification Verification Engineer authority on European avionics compliance.
Frequently asked questions
What standard does SW-CERT-200 cover?
SW-CERT-200 focuses on DO-178C. Master DO-178C structural coverage — statement, decision, and MC/DC — and learn to achieve 100% structural coverage cost-effectively, including dead and deactivated code.
How long is the SW-CERT-200 course and how is it delivered?
SW-CERT-200 is a self-paced, on-demand online module of about 50 minutes (50 slides). Purchase includes 30-day access with unlimited views and downloads for one user.
What level is SW-CERT-200 and are there prerequisites?
SW-CERT-200 is an advanced-level course. Recommended prerequisites: SW-CERT-120.