Software-in-the-loop testing
Software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing allows engineers to integrate compiled production code directly into a real-time simulation environment. This powerful method enables earlier, safer, and more cost-effective control software validation without relying on physical prototypes or test benches. By simulating real system behavior on a PC, teams can detect issues early, reduce development time, and optimize performance, long before hardware enters the picture.
Solution
Our solution for software-in-the-loop simulation
We offer a robust software-in-the-loop (SIL) solution for software in the loop testing that integrates seamlessly with your existing simulation models, allowing source code to be tested in a virtual environment before hardware is ready. Our SIL software in the loop capabilities complement model-in-the-loop (MIL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) methods, enabling a complete model-based design approach—from early concept to final validation. Whether you’re running software-in-the-loop or preparing for full-scale deployment, our solution ensures your test system evolves with your needs.
Benefits
Shift left for smarter software development
Software-in-the-loop (SIL) simulation enables early-stage validation of embedded software by connecting production code to high-fidelity simulation environments. By testing control logic before hardware enters the picture, engineers can reduce rework, accelerate development, and minimize risk.
01
Validate code early
Test production code in a simulated system to catch issues long before hardware integration.
02
Cut debug time
Find and fix bugs sooner, reducing time spent troubleshooting on physical test benches.
03
Iterate quickly
Make fast updates and test changes without compiling for target hardware.
04
Test more scenarios
Simulate edge cases and faults that are hard—or impossible—to reproduce with hardware.
Applications
Used across industries
SIL simulation is a critical tool in any domain where control, protection, or monitoring systems are developed. It’s trusted by engineers, researchers, and educators to de-risk testing and accelerate innovation.
Energy
Validate protection, stability, and integration of renewables
Power electronics
Test converters, inverters, and power systems dynamically
Automotive
Develop EVs, battery management, and driver-assist systems
Aerospace
Simulate flight control, avionics, and propulsion systems
Academia and research
Enable cutting-edge education and innovation
Autonomy
Accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles and robots with real-time sensor simulation and co-simulation tools
Testimonials
Trusted by industry leaders
Discover the groundbreaking innovation that the University of Vaasa led with EXata CPS.
Using HYPERSIM and EXata CPS, we’ve been able to simulate real-world cyberattacks on our microgrid controllers, from denial-of-service to man-in-the-middle attacks. This has allowed us to test resilience strategies in a safe environment, ensuring our microgrid can withstand disruptions and operate reliably under attack scenarios.
Mike Mekkanen
Associate Professor & Senior Researcher at University of Vaasa – School of Technology and Innovations, Information Systems Science
FAQ
Find the answers to your questions
What communication protocols do you support?
Consult our comprehensive list of supported protocols here: Communication Protocols.
What is software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing, and how does it benefit your development workflow?
Software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing allows us to validate control algorithms and compiled production code in a virtual environment, without needing physical hardware. This approach helps us detect and correct issues earlier, simulate real-world scenarios safely, and reduce development costs—all while accelerating the entire engineering process.
How do your software-in-the-loop simulation solutions integrate with existing development tools?
We designed our software-in-the-loop simulation to integrate seamlessly with standard modeling tools like MATLAB/Simulink. Whether you’re running model-in-the-loop (MIL) or preparing for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), our SIL software-in-the-loop workflow acts as a bridge, ensuring a smooth transition from simulation to real-time testing.
Can we use software-in-the-loop testing to replace physical prototypes early in the design phase?
Absolutely. With our software-in-the-loop simulation solutions, we can run real production code on a PC while simulating system behavior. This allows us to validate and fine-tune our software without relying on expensive or unavailable hardware prototypes, reducing risk and improving efficiency.
How does OPAL-RT’s SIL solution support a full model-based design process?
Our software-in-the-loop (SIL) solution complements model-in-the-loop (MIL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and even power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) strategies. This gives us a flexible, scalable path from concept to deployment, where software-in-the-loop testing serves as a critical step in our end-to-end model-based development process.
What makes OPAL-RT’s software-in-the-loop simulation more effective than traditional testing methods?
Our software-in-the-loop simulation solution lets us run high-fidelity virtual tests using real control code, well before hardware is available. By using this software-in-the-loop technique, we gain earlier insight into system behavior, iterate more quickly, and improve software quality—all without leaving our digital development environment.
Ready to accelerate your development?
Get in touch with our experts today! Whether you’re looking to speed up testing, reduce costs, or ensure the safety of your systems, we have the right HIL solutions for you. Let’s talk about how we can help optimize your product development process.