Component · Safety & Security
Watchdog timer
A counter that resets or shuts down the system unless software services it within a time window. Windowed and question-answer variants also check that the service happens neither too early nor without correct program flow.
- Also known as
- WDT, Watchdog
- Type
- Component
- Domain
- Safety & Security, Safety mechanisms
Notes
An independent external watchdog is often required because an internal one shares clocks and supplies with the CPU it guards.
Related terms
Part of the Safety & Security glossary, with every term in the topic and the lifecycles, tools and standards that use them.
Where it appears on the Hub
Used on 2 pages of the Hub. In each group, the pages that mention it most come first.
Lifecycle stages and gates
Skills
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Last reviewed: not yet reviewed in depth. Entry last updated . The full glossary