The LDA - an integrated diagnostics tool

In this paper we describe the Logic Designer\´s Apprentice (LDA). The LDA is a knowledge-based computer program (an "expert system") that designs digital electronic circuits. The LDA extends existing CAD/CAE capabilities by providing a computer aid to the design process, supplementing those that assist the drafting, layout, and simulation processes. It seeks to ensure that appropriate testability (and in the future, other "ility") features are incorporated during the earliest stages of design in accord with the guidelines defined for Integrated Diagnostics. We discuss issues relevant to the engineering development of other knowledge-based tools needed for Integrated Diagnostics including tool selection and choice of knowledge representation.