ProductsUModelUML Application Flow DiagramsUML Protocol State Machine Diagrams

Altova UModel® 2012 supports the special features of protocol state machine diagrams as a dedicated diagram type.

UML Protocol state machine diagrams are a subset of state machine diagrams that display a sequence of events an object responds to, without having to show the specific behavior. Protocol state machines are most often used to describe complex protocols, such as database access through a specific interface, or communication protocols such as TCP/IP.

UModel® 2012 supports protocol state machine diagrams as a unique diagram type, with a specialized diagram toolbar.

Although you can create protocol state machine diagrams using existing state diagram elements, state diagram history elements are not employed, and other elements imply slightly different syntax. For instance, transitions between states can have pre or post conditions that define what must be true for a transition to another state to occur, and what the resulting state must be, once the transition has taken place.

UModel® 2012 shows transition pre and post conditions in the Properties helper window. You can enter them directly in your diagram, or in the Properties window.

Because of the special features of protocol state machine diagrams, and to avoid confusion when you share models with other project stakeholders, it is appropriate for UModel® 2012 to treat protocol state machines as a unique diagram type.

See for yourself how easy it is to create UML protocol state machine diagrams with UModel® 2012! Download a free 30-day evaluation today.