Testing from a nondeterministic finite state machine using adaptive state counting

Abstract

The problem of generating a checking experiment from a nondeterministic finite state machine has been represented in terms of state counting. However, test techniques that use state counting traditionally produce preset test suites. This paper extends the notion of state counting in order to allow the input/output sequences observed in testing to be utilized: Adaptive state counting is introduced. The main benefit of the proposed approach is that it may result in a reduction in the size of the test suite used. An additional benefit is that, where a failure is observed, it is possible to terminate test generation at this point.