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Timing Diagram

A Timing diagram defines the behavior of different objects within a time scale. It provides a visual representation of objects changing state and interacting over time. You can use it to:

  • Define hardware-driven or embedded software components; for example, those used in a fuel injection system or a microwave controller
  • Specify time-driven business processes

You generate Timing diagram elements and connectors from the 'Timing' pages of the Diagram Toolbox.

Example Diagram

A UML Timing Diagram example in Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect.

Timing Diagram Element Toolbox Icons

Icon

Description

See also

State Lifeline element

A State Lifeline element represents the state of an object across a measure of time, using changes in y-axis to represent discrete transitions between states.

State Lifeline
Value Lifeline element

A Value Lifeline element represents the state of an object across a measure of time, using parallel lines indicating a steady state, along the x-axis.

Value Lifeline
Message Label element

A Message Label is an alternative way of denoting Messages between Lifelines, which is useful for 'uncluttering' Timing diagrams strewn with messages.

Message Label
Message Endpoint element

A Message Endpoint element indicates that a Message:

  • Terminates at an undefined point outside the State or Value Lifeline, having started at an identified point within the Lifeline, or
  • Originates from an undefined point outside a State or Value Lifeline, terminating at an identified point within the Lifeline
Message Endpoint
Diagram Gate element

A Diagram Gate element indicates that a Message:

  • Terminates at a defined point outside the State or Value Lifeline, having started at an identified point within the Lifeline, or
  • Originates at a defined point outside a State or Value Lifeline, terminating at an identified point within the Lifeline

The defined point that the Diagram Gate is anchored to is the border of an Interaction Fragment, indicating that the Message issues from or delivers to that Fragment.

Diagram Gate

Timing Diagram Connector Toolbox Icon

Icon

Description

See also

Message connector

Messages indicate a flow of information or transition of control between elements.

Message

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