Modelling of field programmable gate array based nuclear power plant safety systems part I: failure mode and effects analysis

Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are programmable hardware that can be used to perform instrumentation and control functions. The potential use of FPGAs in Nuclear Power Plant safety systems requires that FPGA-based systems must be functionally safe and reliable. To accomplish this, a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) was performed, to uncover the potential failure modes, their causes and their effects. In addition, methods to avoid the failure modes, or mitigate and/or control their effects were recommended. Furthermore, these analysis results were used as the guidelines for review for FPGA-based safety systems. This paper discusses the details of the analysis performed and the results of the study including providing recommendations for future regulatory reviews of FPGA-based safety systems. (author)