General Information

Abstract

The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a
meta-model based on the OMG® Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual
elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development
of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification
analysers and code generators.
The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative
purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions
are provided.
NOTE: OMG®, UML®, OCL™ and UTP™ are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This
information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an
endorsement by ETSI of the products named.

Status
Published
Publication Date
15-Aug-2022
Current Stage
6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
Start Date
23-Jun-2022
Due Date
28-Aug-2022
Completion Date
16-Aug-2022

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Overview

SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022 specifies the foundational aspects of the Test Description Language (TDL), focusing on its abstract syntax and associated semantics. Developed by SIST and aligned with ETSI ES 203 119-1, this standard defines the TDL meta-model, utilizing the OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) as its basis. The standard serves as a reference for further development of concrete TDL syntaxes and as a key resource for tool developers, ensuring consistency and interoperability in test specification methodologies.

TDL enables model-based testing (MBT) methodologies across diverse technology domains by providing a robust, formal foundation for describing, analyzing, and automating tests. The abstract syntax described in this standard acts as a blueprint for the consistent realization of TDL in various syntaxes and tooling environments.

Key Topics

  • TDL Meta-Model Foundation: Defines the structure and semantics of concepts used to describe tests at an abstract level, based on MOF.
  • Abstract Syntax: Specifies essential elements such as elements, data types, test configurations, and behaviours in a technology-agnostic form.
  • Semantics: Clarifies the meaning of each meta-model construct, supporting correct use in the development of test suites and tools.
  • Tool Enablement: Provides a standardized foundation for developing TDL-related tools, such as:
    • Documentation generators
    • Specification analyzers
    • Code generators
  • Extensibility: Facilitates the evolution and extension of TDL by abstracting syntax from any specific language implementation.
  • Illustrative Examples: Includes example textual syntax and applications, supporting better understanding and initial adoption.
  • Conformance: Outlines rules and principles to ensure tools and implementations align with the standard.
  • Linkages to Existing Technologies: References and inter-operates with standards and technologies such as UML, OCL, UTP, and TTCN-3.

Applications

SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022 has broad applicability in industries and sectors that rely on formalized testing and automation, including:

  • Model-Based Testing (MBT): Serves as a foundation for modeling, automating, and managing tests in MBT environments.
  • Test Development: Standardizes the creation and documentation of test descriptions, enhancing clarity, consistency, and reusability across teams and organizations.
  • Tool Integration: Enables interoperability among MBT tools and frameworks by providing a shared formalism for test description.
  • Specification Analysis: Supports rigorous analysis and validation of test specifications in complex ICT systems.
  • Training and Best Practices: Establishes a clear, standardized base for curriculum development, workshops, and onboarding of new test engineers.
  • Cross-Standard Interoperability: Facilitates conversions or mappings to/from other test description standards such as TTCN-3, allowing for flexible adoption across existing tooling ecosystems.

Related Standards

TDL’s foundation and extensibility enable alignment and integration with several related standards:

  • ETSI ES 203 119-2: Graphical Syntax for TDL
  • ETSI ES 203 119-3: Exchange Format specification
  • ETSI ES 203 119-5: UML Profile for TDL
  • ETSI ES 203 119-6: Mapping to TTCN-3
  • OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF): Underpinning meta-modelling technology
  • UML®, OCL™, UTP™: Related OMG standards for modeling and test profiles

Practical Value

By adopting SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022, organizations benefit from:

  • Enhanced consistency and quality in test specifications
  • Streamlined tool interoperability and migration
  • Reduced ambiguity in automated test implementation
  • Accelerated test development cycles through formalized reuse and modularity
  • Stronger alignment with international best practices in software and systems testing

For any organization or tool vendor involved in model-based testing, this standard is vital for ensuring the reliability, scalability, and interoperability of their test framework or product ecosystem.

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Frequently Asked Questions

SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022 is a standard published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS) - The Test Description Language (TDL) - Part 1: Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics". This standard covers: The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a meta-model based on the OMG® Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification analysers and code generators. The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions are provided. NOTE: OMG®, UML®, OCL™ and UTP™ are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an endorsement by ETSI of the products named.

The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a meta-model based on the OMG® Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification analysers and code generators. The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions are provided. NOTE: OMG®, UML®, OCL™ and UTP™ are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an endorsement by ETSI of the products named.

SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 35.060 - Languages used in information technology. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

SIST ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1:2022 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)

ETSI STANDARD
Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS);
The Test Description Language (TDL);
Part 1: Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics


2 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)

Reference
RES/MTS-1191v161
Keywords
language, MBT, methodology, model, testing,
TSS&TP, TTCN-3, UML
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All rights reserved.
ETSI
3 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
Contents
Intellectual Property Rights . 7
Foreword . 7
Modal verbs terminology . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 References . 8
2.1 Normative references . 8
2.2 Informative references . 9
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms . 9
3.2 Symbols . 10
3.3 Abbreviations . 10
4 Basic Principles . 11
4.1 What is TDL? . 11
4.2 Design Considerations . 11
4.3 Principal Design Approach. 12
4.4 Document Structure . 13
4.5 Notational Conventions . 14
4.6 Element Operations . 15
4.7 Conformance . 16
5 Foundation . 16
5.1 Overview . 16
5.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 16
5.2.1 Element . 16
5.2.2 NamedElement . 17
5.2.3 PackageableElement . 18
5.2.4 Package . 18
5.2.5 ElementImport . 19
5.2.6 Comment . 20
5.2.7 Annotation . 21
5.2.8 AnnotationType . 21
5.2.9 TestObjective . 22
5.2.10 Extension . 22
5.2.11 ConstraintType . 23
5.2.12 Constraint . 23
6 Data . 25
6.1 Overview . 25
6.2 Data Definition - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 25
6.2.1 DataResourceMapping . 25
6.2.2 MappableDataElement . 26
6.2.3 DataElementMapping . 26
6.2.4 ParameterMapping . 27
6.2.5 DataType . 28
6.2.6 DataInstance . 29
6.2.7 SimpleDataType . 29
6.2.8 SimpleDataInstance . 30
6.2.9 StructuredDataType . 30
6.2.10 Member . 31
6.2.11 StructuredDataInstance . 31
6.2.12 MemberAssignment . 33
6.2.13 CollectionDataType . 34
6.2.14 CollectionDataInstance . 34
6.2.15 ProcedureSignature . 35
6.2.16 ProcedureParameter . 35
ETSI
4 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
6.2.17 ParameterKind . 36
6.2.18 Parameter . 37
6.2.19 FormalParameter . 37
6.2.20 Variable . 38
6.2.21 Action . 38
6.2.22 Function . 39
6.2.23 UnassignedMemberTreatment . 39
6.2.24 PredefinedFunction . 40
6.2.25 EnumDataType . 40
6.3 Data Use - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 41
6.3.1 DataUse . 41
6.3.2 ParameterBinding . 42
6.3.3 MemberReference . 43
6.3.4 StaticDataUse . 43
6.3.5 DataInstanceUse . 44
6.3.6 SpecialValueUse . 45
6.3.7 AnyValue . 45
6.3.8 AnyValueOrOmit . 46
6.3.9 OmitValue. 46
6.3.10 DynamicDataUse . 47
6.3.11 FunctionCall . 47
6.3.12 FormalParameterUse . 48
6.3.13 VariableUse . 48
6.3.14 PredefinedFunctionCall . 49
6.3.15 LiteralValueUse . 49
6.3.16 DataElementUse . 50
7 Time . 52
7.1 Overview . 52
7.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 52
7.2.1 Time . 52
7.2.2 TimeLabel . 53
7.2.3 TimeLabelUse . 54
7.2.4 TimeLabelUseKind . 54
7.2.5 TimeConstraint . 55
7.2.6 TimeOperation . 56
7.2.7 Wait . 57
7.2.8 Quiescence . 57
7.2.9 Timer . 59
7.2.10 TimerOperation . 59
7.2.11 TimerStart . 59
7.2.12 TimerStop . 60
7.2.13 TimeOut . 60
8 Test Configuration . 61
8.1 Overview . 61
8.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 61
8.2.1 GateType . 61
8.2.2 GateTypeKind . 62
8.2.3 GateInstance . 63
8.2.4 ComponentType . 63
8.2.5 ComponentInstance . 64
8.2.6 ComponentInstanceRole . 64
8.2.7 GateReference . 65
8.2.8 Connection . 65
8.2.9 TestConfiguration . 66
9 Test Behaviour . 67
9.1 Overview . 67
9.2 Test Description - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 68
9.2.1 TestDescription . 68
9.2.2 BehaviourDescription . 69
9.3 Combined Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 70
ETSI
5 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
9.3.1 Behaviour . 70
9.3.2 Block . 71
9.3.3 LocalExpression . 72
9.3.4 CombinedBehaviour . 72
9.3.5 SingleCombinedBehaviour . 73
9.3.6 CompoundBehaviour . 73
9.3.7 BoundedLoopBehaviour . 74
9.3.8 UnboundedLoopBehaviour . 75
9.3.9 OptionalBehaviour . 75
9.3.10 MultipleCombinedBehaviour . 76
9.3.11 AlternativeBehaviour . 76
9.3.12 ConditionalBehaviour . 78
9.3.13 ParallelBehaviour . 79
9.3.14 ExceptionalBehaviour . 80
9.3.15 DefaultBehaviour . 82
9.3.16 InterruptBehaviour . 82
9.3.17 PeriodicBehaviour . 83
9.4 Atomic Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 84
9.4.1 AtomicBehaviour . 84
9.4.2 Break . 85
9.4.3 Stop . 85
9.4.4 VerdictAssignment . 86
9.4.5 Assertion . 86
9.4.6 Interaction . 87
9.4.7 Message . 88
9.4.8 ProcedureCall . 90
9.4.9 Target . 92
9.4.10 ValueAssignment . 93
9.4.11 TestDescriptionReference . 94
9.4.12 ComponentInstanceBinding . 96
9.4.13 ActionBehaviour . 97
9.4.14 ActionReference . 98
9.4.15 InlineAction . 98
9.4.16 Assignment . 98
10 Predefined TDL Model Instances . 99
10.1 Overview . 99
10.2 Predefined Instances of the 'SimpleDataType' Element . 99
10.2.1 Boolean . 99
10.2.2 Integer . 99
10.2.3 String . 100
10.2.4 Verdict . 100
10.3 Predefined Instances of 'SimpleDataInstance' Element . 100
10.3.1 True . 100
10.3.2 False . 100
10.3.3 pass . 100
10.3.4 fail . 100
10.3.5 inconclusive . 100
10.4 Predefined Instances of 'Time' Element . 100
10.4.1 Second . 100
10.5 Predefined Instances of the 'PredefinedFunction' Element . 101
10.5.1 Overview . 101
10.5.2 Functions of Return Type 'Boolean' . 101
10.5.3 Functions of Return Type 'Integer' . 102
10.5.4 Functions of Return Type of Instance of 'Time' . 102
10.6 Predefined Instances of the 'AnnotationType' Element . 102
10.6.1 Master . 102
10.6.2 MappingName . 102
10.7 Predefined Instances of 'ConstraintType' Element . 102
10.7.1 length . 102
10.7.2 minLength . 103
10.7.3 maxLength . 103
ETSI
6 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
10.7.4 range . 103
10.7.5 format . 103
10.7.6 union . 103
10.7.7 uniontype . 103
Annex A (informative): Technical Representation of the TDL Meta-Model . 104
Annex B (informative): Legacy Examples of a TDL Concrete Textual Syntax . 105
B.1 Introduction . 105
B.2 A 3GPP Conformance Example in Textual Syntax . 105
B.3 An IMS Interoperability Example in Textual Syntax . 107
B.4 An Example Demonstrating TDL Data Concepts . 109
B.5 TDL Legacy Textual Syntax Reference . 111
B.5.1 Conventions for the TDLan Syntax Definition . 111
B.5.2 TDL Textual Syntax EBNF Production Rules . 111
Annex C (informative): Bibliography . 117
History . 118

ETSI
7 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
Intellectual Property Rights
Essential patents
IPRs essential or potentially essential to normative deliverables may have been declared to ETSI. The declarations
pertaining to these essential IPRs, if any, are publicly available for ETSI members and non-members, and can be
found in ETSI SR 000 314: "Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs); Essential, or potentially Essential, IPRs notified to
ETSI in respect of ETSI standards", which is available from the ETSI Secretariat. Latest updates are available on the
ETSI Web server (https://ipr.etsi.org/).
Pursuant to the ETSI Directives including the ETSI IPR Policy, no investigation regarding the essentiality of IPRs,
including IPR searches, has been carried out by ETSI. No guarantee can be given as to the existence of other IPRs not
referenced in ETSI SR 000 314 (or the updates on the ETSI Web server) which are, or may be, or may become,
essential to the present document.
Trademarks
The present document may include trademarks and/or tradenames which are asserted and/or registered by their owners.
ETSI claims no ownership of these except for any which are indicated as being the property of ETSI, and conveys no
right to use or reproduce any trademark and/or tradename. Mention of those trademarks in the present document does
not constitute an endorsement by ETSI of products, services or organizations associated with those trademarks.
DECT™, PLUGTESTS™, UMTS™ and the ETSI logo are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its

Members. 3GPP™ and LTE™ are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the 3GPP
Organizational Partners. oneM2M™ logo is a trademark of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the ®
oneM2M Partners. GSM and the GSM logo are trademarks registered and owned by the GSM Association.
Foreword
This final draft ETSI Standard (ES) has been produced by ETSI Technical Committee Methods for Testing and
Specification (MTS), and is now submitted for the ETSI standards Membership Approval Procedure.
The present document is part 1 of a multi-part deliverable covering the Test Description Language, as identified below:
Part 1: "Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics";
Part 2: "Graphical Syntax";
Part 3: "Exchange Format";
Part 4: "Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)";
Part 5: "UML profile for TDL";
Part 6: "Mapping to TTCN-3";
Part 7: "Extended Test Configurations";
Part 8: "Textual Syntax".
Modal verbs terminology
In the present document "shall", "shall not", "should", "should not", "may", "need not", "will", "will not", "can" and
"cannot" are to be interpreted as described in clause 3.2 of the ETSI Drafting Rules (Verbal forms for the expression of
provisions).
"must" and "must not" are NOT allowed in ETSI deliverables except when used in direct citation.
ETSI
8 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
1 Scope
The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a ®
meta-model based on the OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual
elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development
of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification
analysers and code generators.
The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative
purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions
are provided.
® ® ™ ™
NOTE: OMG , UML , OCL and UTP are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This
information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an
endorsement by ETSI of the products named.
2 References
2.1 Normative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
Referenced documents which are not found to be publicly available in the expected location might be found at
https://docbox.etsi.org/Reference.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are necessary for the application of the present document. ®
[1] OMG formal/2013-06-01: "OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) Core Specification V2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/MOF/2.4.1/. ®
[2] OMG formal/2011-08-06: "OMG Unified Modeling Language™ (OMG UML), Superstructure,
Version 2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/UML/2.4.1/. ®
[3] OMG formal/2014-02-03: "Object Constraint Language™ (OCL), Version 2.4".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/OCL/2.4/.
[4] Void.
[5] ETSI ES 203 119-3 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 3: Exchange Format".
[6] ETSI ES 203 119-4 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 4: Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)".
[7] ISO/IEC 9646-1:1994: "Information technology - Open Systems Interconnection -- Conformance
testing methodology and framework -- Part 1: General concepts".
[8] ETSI ES 203 119-8 (V1.1.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 8: Textual Syntax".
ETSI
9 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
2.2 Informative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are not necessary for the application of the present document but they assist the
user with regard to a particular subject area.
[i.1] ETSI ES 201 873-1 (V4.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Testing and
Test Control Notation version 3; Part 1: TTCN-3 Core Language".
[i.2] ETSI TS 136 523-1 (V10.2.0): "LTE; Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) and
Evolved Packet Core (EPC); User Equipment (UE) conformance specification; Part 1: Protocol
conformance specification (3GPP TS 36.523-1 version 10.2.0 Release 10)".
[i.3] ETSI TS 186 011-2 (V3.1.1): "IMS Network Testing (INT); IMS NNI Interoperability Test
Specifications; Part 2: Test Description for IMS NNI Interoperability".
[i.4] ETSI: The TDL Open Source Project Website (last visited 20.12.2021).
NOTE: Available at https://tdl.etsi.org/index.php/open-source.
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations
3.1 Terms
For the purposes of the present document, the following terms apply:
abstract syntax: graph structure representing a TDL specification in an independent form of any particular encoding
action: any procedure carried out by a component of a test configuration or an actor during test execution
actor: abstraction of entities outside a test configuration that interact directly with the components of that test
configuration
component: active element of a test configuration that is either in the role tester or system under test
concrete syntax: particular representation of a TDL specification, encoded in a textual, graphical, tabular or any other
format suitable for the users of this language
effectively static: any data specification that is statically determined (also recursively for all parameter bindings) and
can be considered constant during the execution
interaction: any form of communication between components that is accompanied with an exchange of data
meta-model: modelling elements representing the abstract syntax of a language
resolved data type: data type of a data use, determined by a referenced data instance, data type, parameter, return type
of a function, or the context where the data use is defined
scope of behaviour: components participating in a behaviour
System Under Test (SUT): role of a component within a test configuration whose behaviour is validated when
executing a test description
TDL model: instance of the TDL meta-model
TDL specification: representation of a TDL model given in a concrete syntax
ETSI
10 Final draft ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-03)
test configuration: specification of a set of components that contains at least one tester component and one system
under test component plus their interconnections via gates and connections
test description: specification of test behaviour that runs on a given test configuration
test verdict: result from executing a test description
tester: role of a component within a test configuration that controls the execution of a test description against the
components in the role system under test
tester-input event: event that occurs at a component in the role tester and determines the subsequent behaviour of this
tester component
NOTE: Tester-input events in the present document are the following:
 Quiescence.
 TimeOut.
 An 'Interaction' with a 'Target' that in turn-via its 'GateReference'-refers to a 'ComponentInstance'
in the role 'Tester'. If the source of an 'Interaction' is also a tester then it is not a tester-input event.
: semantical concept denoting an undefined data value
3.2 Symbols
...


ETSI STANDARD
Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS);
The Test Description Language (TDL);
Part 1: Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics


2 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)

Reference
RES/MTS-1191v161
Keywords
language, MBT, methodology, model, testing,
TSS&TP, TTCN-3, UML
ETSI
650 Route des Lucioles
F-06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex - FRANCE

Tel.: +33 4 92 94 42 00  Fax: +33 4 93 65 47 16

Siret N° 348 623 562 00017 - APE 7112B
Association à but non lucratif enregistrée à la
Sous-Préfecture de Grasse (06) N° w061004871

Important notice
The present document can be downloaded from:
http://www.etsi.org/standards-search
The present document may be made available in electronic versions and/or in print. The content of any electronic and/or
print versions of the present document shall not be modified without the prior written authorization of ETSI. In case of any
existing or perceived difference in contents between such versions and/or in print, the prevailing version of an ETSI
deliverable is the one made publicly available in PDF format at www.etsi.org/deliver.
Users of the present document should be aware that the document may be subject to revision or change of status.
Information on the current status of this and other ETSI documents is available at
https://portal.etsi.org/TB/ETSIDeliverableStatus.aspx
If you find errors in the present document, please send your comment to one of the following services:
https://portal.etsi.org/People/CommiteeSupportStaff.aspx
If you find a security vulnerability in the present document, please report it through our
Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure Program:
https://www.etsi.org/standards/coordinated-vulnerability-disclosure
Notice of disclaimer & limitation of liability
The information provided in the present deliverable is directed solely to professionals who have the appropriate degree of
experience to understand and interpret its content in accordance with generally accepted engineering or
other professional standard and applicable regulations.
No recommendation as to products and services or vendors is made or should be implied.
No representation or warranty is made that this deliverable is technically accurate or sufficient or conforms to any law
rule and/or regulation and further, no representation or warranty is made of merchantability or fitness
and/or governmental
for any particular purpose or against infringement of intellectual property rights.
In no event shall ETSI be held liable for loss of profits or any other incidental or consequential damages.

Any software contained in this deliverable is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, express or implied, including but not
limited to, the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement of intellectual property
rights and ETSI shall not be held liable in any event for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages
for loss of profits, business interruption, loss of information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of or related to the use
of or inability to use the software.
Copyright Notification
No part may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and
microfilm except as authorized by written permission of ETSI.
The content of the PDF version shall not be modified without the written authorization of ETSI.
The copyright and the foregoing restriction extend to reproduction in all media.

© ETSI 2022.
All rights reserved.
ETSI
3 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
Contents
Intellectual Property Rights . 7
Foreword . 7
Modal verbs terminology . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 References . 8
2.1 Normative references . 8
2.2 Informative references . 9
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms . 9
3.2 Symbols . 10
3.3 Abbreviations . 10
4 Basic Principles . 11
4.1 What is TDL? . 11
4.2 Design Considerations . 11
4.3 Principal Design Approach. 12
4.4 Document Structure . 13
4.5 Notational Conventions . 14
4.6 Element Operations . 15
4.7 Conformance . 16
5 Foundation . 16
5.1 Overview . 16
5.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 16
5.2.1 Element . 16
5.2.2 NamedElement . 17
5.2.3 PackageableElement . 18
5.2.4 Package . 18
5.2.5 ElementImport . 19
5.2.6 Comment . 20
5.2.7 Annotation . 21
5.2.8 AnnotationType . 21
5.2.9 TestObjective . 22
5.2.10 Extension . 22
5.2.11 ConstraintType . 23
5.2.12 Constraint . 23
6 Data . 25
6.1 Overview . 25
6.2 Data Definition - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 25
6.2.1 DataResourceMapping . 25
6.2.2 MappableDataElement . 26
6.2.3 DataElementMapping . 26
6.2.4 ParameterMapping . 27
6.2.5 DataType . 28
6.2.6 DataInstance . 29
6.2.7 SimpleDataType . 29
6.2.8 SimpleDataInstance . 30
6.2.9 StructuredDataType . 30
6.2.10 Member . 31
6.2.11 StructuredDataInstance . 31
6.2.12 MemberAssignment . 33
6.2.13 CollectionDataType . 34
6.2.14 CollectionDataInstance . 34
6.2.15 ProcedureSignature . 35
6.2.16 ProcedureParameter . 35
ETSI
4 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
6.2.17 ParameterKind . 36
6.2.18 Parameter . 37
6.2.19 FormalParameter . 37
6.2.20 Variable . 38
6.2.21 Action . 38
6.2.22 Function . 39
6.2.23 UnassignedMemberTreatment . 39
6.2.24 PredefinedFunction . 40
6.2.25 EnumDataType . 40
6.3 Data Use - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 41
6.3.1 DataUse . 41
6.3.2 ParameterBinding . 42
6.3.3 MemberReference . 43
6.3.4 StaticDataUse . 43
6.3.5 DataInstanceUse . 44
6.3.6 SpecialValueUse . 45
6.3.7 AnyValue . 45
6.3.8 AnyValueOrOmit . 46
6.3.9 OmitValue. 46
6.3.10 DynamicDataUse . 47
6.3.11 FunctionCall . 47
6.3.12 FormalParameterUse . 48
6.3.13 VariableUse . 48
6.3.14 PredefinedFunctionCall . 49
6.3.15 LiteralValueUse . 49
6.3.16 DataElementUse . 50
7 Time . 52
7.1 Overview . 52
7.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 52
7.2.1 Time . 52
7.2.2 TimeLabel . 53
7.2.3 TimeLabelUse . 54
7.2.4 TimeLabelUseKind . 54
7.2.5 TimeConstraint . 55
7.2.6 TimeOperation . 56
7.2.7 Wait . 57
7.2.8 Quiescence . 57
7.2.9 Timer . 59
7.2.10 TimerOperation . 59
7.2.11 TimerStart . 59
7.2.12 TimerStop . 60
7.2.13 TimeOut . 60
8 Test Configuration . 61
8.1 Overview . 61
8.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 61
8.2.1 GateType . 61
8.2.2 GateTypeKind . 62
8.2.3 GateInstance . 63
8.2.4 ComponentType . 63
8.2.5 ComponentInstance . 64
8.2.6 ComponentInstanceRole . 64
8.2.7 GateReference . 65
8.2.8 Connection . 65
8.2.9 TestConfiguration . 66
9 Test Behaviour . 67
9.1 Overview . 67
9.2 Test Description - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 68
9.2.1 TestDescription . 68
9.2.2 BehaviourDescription . 69
9.3 Combined Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 70
ETSI
5 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
9.3.1 Behaviour . 70
9.3.2 Block . 71
9.3.3 LocalExpression . 72
9.3.4 CombinedBehaviour . 72
9.3.5 SingleCombinedBehaviour . 73
9.3.6 CompoundBehaviour . 73
9.3.7 BoundedLoopBehaviour . 74
9.3.8 UnboundedLoopBehaviour . 75
9.3.9 OptionalBehaviour . 75
9.3.10 MultipleCombinedBehaviour . 76
9.3.11 AlternativeBehaviour . 76
9.3.12 ConditionalBehaviour . 78
9.3.13 ParallelBehaviour . 79
9.3.14 ExceptionalBehaviour . 80
9.3.15 DefaultBehaviour . 82
9.3.16 InterruptBehaviour . 82
9.3.17 PeriodicBehaviour . 83
9.4 Atomic Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 84
9.4.1 AtomicBehaviour . 84
9.4.2 Break . 85
9.4.3 Stop . 85
9.4.4 VerdictAssignment . 86
9.4.5 Assertion . 86
9.4.6 Interaction . 87
9.4.7 Message . 88
9.4.8 ProcedureCall . 90
9.4.9 Target . 92
9.4.10 ValueAssignment . 93
9.4.11 TestDescriptionReference . 94
9.4.12 ComponentInstanceBinding . 96
9.4.13 ActionBehaviour . 97
9.4.14 ActionReference . 98
9.4.15 InlineAction . 98
9.4.16 Assignment . 98
10 Predefined TDL Model Instances . 99
10.1 Overview . 99
10.2 Predefined Instances of the 'SimpleDataType' Element . 99
10.2.1 Boolean . 99
10.2.2 Integer . 99
10.2.3 String . 100
10.2.4 Verdict . 100
10.3 Predefined Instances of 'SimpleDataInstance' Element . 100
10.3.1 True . 100
10.3.2 False . 100
10.3.3 pass . 100
10.3.4 fail . 100
10.3.5 inconclusive . 100
10.4 Predefined Instances of 'Time' Element . 100
10.4.1 Second . 100
10.5 Predefined Instances of the 'PredefinedFunction' Element . 101
10.5.1 Overview . 101
10.5.2 Functions of Return Type 'Boolean' . 101
10.5.3 Functions of Return Type 'Integer' . 102
10.5.4 Functions of Return Type of Instance of 'Time' . 102
10.6 Predefined Instances of the 'AnnotationType' Element . 102
10.6.1 Master . 102
10.6.2 MappingName . 102
10.7 Predefined Instances of 'ConstraintType' Element . 102
10.7.1 length . 102
10.7.2 minLength . 103
10.7.3 maxLength . 103
ETSI
6 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
10.7.4 range . 103
10.7.5 format . 103
10.7.6 union . 103
10.7.7 uniontype . 103
Annex A (informative): Technical Representation of the TDL Meta-Model . 104
Annex B (informative): Legacy Examples of a TDL Concrete Textual Syntax . 105
B.1 Introduction . 105
B.2 A 3GPP Conformance Example in Textual Syntax . 105
B.3 An IMS Interoperability Example in Textual Syntax . 107
B.4 An Example Demonstrating TDL Data Concepts . 109
B.5 TDL Legacy Textual Syntax Reference . 111
B.5.1 Conventions for the TDLan Syntax Definition . 111
B.5.2 TDL Textual Syntax EBNF Production Rules . 111
Annex C (informative): Bibliography . 117
History . 118

ETSI
7 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
Intellectual Property Rights
Essential patents
IPRs essential or potentially essential to normative deliverables may have been declared to ETSI. The declarations
pertaining to these essential IPRs, if any, are publicly available for ETSI members and non-members, and can be
found in ETSI SR 000 314: "Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs); Essential, or potentially Essential, IPRs notified to
ETSI in respect of ETSI standards", which is available from the ETSI Secretariat. Latest updates are available on the
ETSI Web server (https://ipr.etsi.org/).
Pursuant to the ETSI Directives including the ETSI IPR Policy, no investigation regarding the essentiality of IPRs,
including IPR searches, has been carried out by ETSI. No guarantee can be given as to the existence of other IPRs not
referenced in ETSI SR 000 314 (or the updates on the ETSI Web server) which are, or may be, or may become,
essential to the present document.
Trademarks
The present document may include trademarks and/or tradenames which are asserted and/or registered by their owners.
ETSI claims no ownership of these except for any which are indicated as being the property of ETSI, and conveys no
right to use or reproduce any trademark and/or tradename. Mention of those trademarks in the present document does
not constitute an endorsement by ETSI of products, services or organizations associated with those trademarks.
DECT™, PLUGTESTS™, UMTS™ and the ETSI logo are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its

Members. 3GPP™ and LTE™ are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the 3GPP
Organizational Partners. oneM2M™ logo is a trademark of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the ®
oneM2M Partners. GSM and the GSM logo are trademarks registered and owned by the GSM Association.
Foreword
This ETSI Standard (ES) has been produced by ETSI Technical Committee Methods for Testing and Specification
(MTS).
The present document is part 1 of a multi-part deliverable covering the Test Description Language, as identified below:
Part 1: "Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics";
Part 2: "Graphical Syntax";
Part 3: "Exchange Format";
Part 4: "Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)";
Part 5: "UML profile for TDL";
Part 6: "Mapping to TTCN-3";
Part 7: "Extended Test Configurations";
Part 8: "Textual Syntax".
Modal verbs terminology
In the present document "shall", "shall not", "should", "should not", "may", "need not", "will", "will not", "can" and
"cannot" are to be interpreted as described in clause 3.2 of the ETSI Drafting Rules (Verbal forms for the expression of
provisions).
"must" and "must not" are NOT allowed in ETSI deliverables except when used in direct citation.
ETSI
8 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
1 Scope
The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a ®
meta-model based on the OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual
elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development
of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification
analysers and code generators.
The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative
purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions
are provided.
® ® ™ ™
NOTE: OMG , UML , OCL and UTP are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This
information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an
endorsement by ETSI of the products named.
2 References
2.1 Normative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
Referenced documents which are not found to be publicly available in the expected location might be found at
https://docbox.etsi.org/Reference.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are necessary for the application of the present document. ®
[1] OMG formal/2013-06-01: "OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) Core Specification V2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/MOF/2.4.1/. ®
[2] OMG formal/2011-08-06: "OMG Unified Modeling Language™ (OMG UML), Superstructure,
Version 2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/UML/2.4.1/. ®
[3] OMG formal/2014-02-03: "Object Constraint Language™ (OCL), Version 2.4".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/OCL/2.4/.
[4] Void.
[5] ETSI ES 203 119-3 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 3: Exchange Format".
[6] ETSI ES 203 119-4 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 4: Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)".
[7] ISO/IEC 9646-1:1994: "Information technology - Open Systems Interconnection -- Conformance
testing methodology and framework -- Part 1: General concepts".
[8] ETSI ES 203 119-8 (V1.1.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 8: Textual Syntax".
ETSI
9 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
2.2 Informative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are not necessary for the application of the present document but they assist the
user with regard to a particular subject area.
[i.1] ETSI ES 201 873-1 (V4.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Testing and
Test Control Notation version 3; Part 1: TTCN-3 Core Language".
[i.2] ETSI TS 136 523-1 (V10.2.0): "LTE; Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) and
Evolved Packet Core (EPC); User Equipment (UE) conformance specification; Part 1: Protocol
conformance specification (3GPP TS 36.523-1 version 10.2.0 Release 10)".
[i.3] ETSI TS 186 011-2 (V3.1.1): "IMS Network Testing (INT); IMS NNI Interoperability Test
Specifications; Part 2: Test Description for IMS NNI Interoperability".
[i.4] ETSI: The TDL Open Source Project Website (last visited 20.12.2021).
NOTE: Available at https://tdl.etsi.org/index.php/open-source.
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations
3.1 Terms
For the purposes of the present document, the following terms apply:
abstract syntax: graph structure representing a TDL specification in an independent form of any particular encoding
action: any procedure carried out by a component of a test configuration or an actor during test execution
actor: abstraction of entities outside a test configuration that interact directly with the components of that test
configuration
component: active element of a test configuration that is either in the role tester or system under test
concrete syntax: particular representation of a TDL specification, encoded in a textual, graphical, tabular or any other
format suitable for the users of this language
effectively static: any data specification that is statically determined (also recursively for all parameter bindings) and
can be considered constant during the execution
interaction: any form of communication between components that is accompanied with an exchange of data
meta-model: modelling elements representing the abstract syntax of a language
resolved data type: data type of a data use, determined by a referenced data instance, data type, parameter, return type
of a function, or the context where the data use is defined
scope of behaviour: components participating in a behaviour
System Under Test (SUT): role of a component within a test configuration whose behaviour is validated when
executing a test description
TDL model: instance of the TDL meta-model
TDL specification: representation of a TDL model given in a concrete syntax
ETSI
10 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
test configuration: specification of a set of components that contains at least one tester component and one system
under test component plus their interconnections via gates and connections
test description: specification of test behaviour that runs on a given test configuration
test verdict: result from executing a test description
tester: role of a component within a test configuration that controls the execution of a test description against the
components in the role system under test
tester-input event: event that occurs at a component in the role tester and determines the subsequent behaviour of this
tester component
NOTE: Tester-input events in the present document are the following:
 Quiescence.
 TimeOut.
 An 'Interaction' with a 'Target' that in turn-via its 'GateReference'-refers to a 'ComponentInstance'
in the role 'Tester'. If the source of an 'Interaction' is also a tester then it is not a tester-input event.
: semantical concept denoting an undefined data value
3.2 Symbols
Void.
3.3 Abbreviations
For the purposes of the present document, the following abbreviations apply:
ADT Abstract Data Type
EBNF Extended Backus-Naur Form
ID Identification
IEC International Electrotechnical Commis
...


SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-september-2022
Metode za preskušanje in specificiranje (MTS) - Jezik za opis preskusa (TDL) - 1.
del: Abstraktna skladnja in pripadajoče pomenoslovje
Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS) - The Test Description Language (TDL) -
Part 1: Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
ICS:
35.060 Jeziki, ki se uporabljajo v Languages used in
informacijski tehniki in information technology
tehnologiji
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

ETSI STANDARD
Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS);
The Test Description Language (TDL);
Part 1: Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics


2 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)

Reference
RES/MTS-1191v161
Keywords
language, MBT, methodology, model, testing,
TSS&TP, TTCN-3, UML
ETSI
650 Route des Lucioles
F-06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex - FRANCE

Tel.: +33 4 92 94 42 00  Fax: +33 4 93 65 47 16

Siret N° 348 623 562 00017 - APE 7112B
Association à but non lucratif enregistrée à la
Sous-Préfecture de Grasse (06) N° w061004871

Important notice
The present document can be downloaded from:
http://www.etsi.org/standards-search
The present document may be made available in electronic versions and/or in print. The content of any electronic and/or
print versions of the present document shall not be modified without the prior written authorization of ETSI. In case of any
existing or perceived difference in contents between such versions and/or in print, the prevailing version of an ETSI
deliverable is the one made publicly available in PDF format at www.etsi.org/deliver.
Users of the present document should be aware that the document may be subject to revision or change of status.
Information on the current status of this and other ETSI documents is available at
https://portal.etsi.org/TB/ETSIDeliverableStatus.aspx
If you find errors in the present document, please send your comment to one of the following services:
https://portal.etsi.org/People/CommiteeSupportStaff.aspx
If you find a security vulnerability in the present document, please report it through our
Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure Program:
https://www.etsi.org/standards/coordinated-vulnerability-disclosure
Notice of disclaimer & limitation of liability
The information provided in the present deliverable is directed solely to professionals who have the appropriate degree of
experience to understand and interpret its content in accordance with generally accepted engineering or
other professional standard and applicable regulations.
No recommendation as to products and services or vendors is made or should be implied.
No representation or warranty is made that this deliverable is technically accurate or sufficient or conforms to any law
rule and/or regulation and further, no representation or warranty is made of merchantability or fitness
and/or governmental
for any particular purpose or against infringement of intellectual property rights.
In no event shall ETSI be held liable for loss of profits or any other incidental or consequential damages.

Any software contained in this deliverable is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, express or implied, including but not
limited to, the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement of intellectual property
rights and ETSI shall not be held liable in any event for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages
for loss of profits, business interruption, loss of information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of or related to the use
of or inability to use the software.
Copyright Notification
No part may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and
microfilm except as authorized by written permission of ETSI.
The content of the PDF version shall not be modified without the written authorization of ETSI.
The copyright and the foregoing restriction extend to reproduction in all media.

© ETSI 2022.
All rights reserved.
ETSI
3 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
Contents
Intellectual Property Rights . 7
Foreword . 7
Modal verbs terminology . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 References . 8
2.1 Normative references . 8
2.2 Informative references . 9
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms . 9
3.2 Symbols . 10
3.3 Abbreviations . 10
4 Basic Principles . 11
4.1 What is TDL? . 11
4.2 Design Considerations . 11
4.3 Principal Design Approach. 12
4.4 Document Structure . 13
4.5 Notational Conventions . 14
4.6 Element Operations . 15
4.7 Conformance . 16
5 Foundation . 16
5.1 Overview . 16
5.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 16
5.2.1 Element . 16
5.2.2 NamedElement . 17
5.2.3 PackageableElement . 18
5.2.4 Package . 18
5.2.5 ElementImport . 19
5.2.6 Comment . 20
5.2.7 Annotation . 21
5.2.8 AnnotationType . 21
5.2.9 TestObjective . 22
5.2.10 Extension . 22
5.2.11 ConstraintType . 23
5.2.12 Constraint . 23
6 Data . 25
6.1 Overview . 25
6.2 Data Definition - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 25
6.2.1 DataResourceMapping . 25
6.2.2 MappableDataElement . 26
6.2.3 DataElementMapping . 26
6.2.4 ParameterMapping . 27
6.2.5 DataType . 28
6.2.6 DataInstance . 29
6.2.7 SimpleDataType . 29
6.2.8 SimpleDataInstance . 30
6.2.9 StructuredDataType . 30
6.2.10 Member . 31
6.2.11 StructuredDataInstance . 31
6.2.12 MemberAssignment . 33
6.2.13 CollectionDataType . 34
6.2.14 CollectionDataInstance . 34
6.2.15 ProcedureSignature . 35
6.2.16 ProcedureParameter . 35
ETSI
4 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
6.2.17 ParameterKind . 36
6.2.18 Parameter . 37
6.2.19 FormalParameter . 37
6.2.20 Variable . 38
6.2.21 Action . 38
6.2.22 Function . 39
6.2.23 UnassignedMemberTreatment . 39
6.2.24 PredefinedFunction . 40
6.2.25 EnumDataType . 40
6.3 Data Use - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 41
6.3.1 DataUse . 41
6.3.2 ParameterBinding . 42
6.3.3 MemberReference . 43
6.3.4 StaticDataUse . 43
6.3.5 DataInstanceUse . 44
6.3.6 SpecialValueUse . 45
6.3.7 AnyValue . 45
6.3.8 AnyValueOrOmit . 46
6.3.9 OmitValue. 46
6.3.10 DynamicDataUse . 47
6.3.11 FunctionCall . 47
6.3.12 FormalParameterUse . 48
6.3.13 VariableUse . 48
6.3.14 PredefinedFunctionCall . 49
6.3.15 LiteralValueUse . 49
6.3.16 DataElementUse . 50
7 Time . 52
7.1 Overview . 52
7.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 52
7.2.1 Time . 52
7.2.2 TimeLabel . 53
7.2.3 TimeLabelUse . 54
7.2.4 TimeLabelUseKind . 54
7.2.5 TimeConstraint . 55
7.2.6 TimeOperation . 56
7.2.7 Wait . 57
7.2.8 Quiescence . 57
7.2.9 Timer . 59
7.2.10 TimerOperation . 59
7.2.11 TimerStart . 59
7.2.12 TimerStop . 60
7.2.13 TimeOut . 60
8 Test Configuration . 61
8.1 Overview . 61
8.2 Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 61
8.2.1 GateType . 61
8.2.2 GateTypeKind . 62
8.2.3 GateInstance . 63
8.2.4 ComponentType . 63
8.2.5 ComponentInstance . 64
8.2.6 ComponentInstanceRole . 64
8.2.7 GateReference . 65
8.2.8 Connection . 65
8.2.9 TestConfiguration . 66
9 Test Behaviour . 67
9.1 Overview . 67
9.2 Test Description - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 68
9.2.1 TestDescription . 68
9.2.2 BehaviourDescription . 69
9.3 Combined Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 70
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5 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
9.3.1 Behaviour . 70
9.3.2 Block . 71
9.3.3 LocalExpression . 72
9.3.4 CombinedBehaviour . 72
9.3.5 SingleCombinedBehaviour . 73
9.3.6 CompoundBehaviour . 73
9.3.7 BoundedLoopBehaviour . 74
9.3.8 UnboundedLoopBehaviour . 75
9.3.9 OptionalBehaviour . 75
9.3.10 MultipleCombinedBehaviour . 76
9.3.11 AlternativeBehaviour . 76
9.3.12 ConditionalBehaviour . 78
9.3.13 ParallelBehaviour . 79
9.3.14 ExceptionalBehaviour . 80
9.3.15 DefaultBehaviour . 82
9.3.16 InterruptBehaviour . 82
9.3.17 PeriodicBehaviour . 83
9.4 Atomic Behaviour - Abstract Syntax and Classifier Description . 84
9.4.1 AtomicBehaviour . 84
9.4.2 Break . 85
9.4.3 Stop . 85
9.4.4 VerdictAssignment . 86
9.4.5 Assertion . 86
9.4.6 Interaction . 87
9.4.7 Message . 88
9.4.8 ProcedureCall . 90
9.4.9 Target . 92
9.4.10 ValueAssignment . 93
9.4.11 TestDescriptionReference . 94
9.4.12 ComponentInstanceBinding . 96
9.4.13 ActionBehaviour . 97
9.4.14 ActionReference . 98
9.4.15 InlineAction . 98
9.4.16 Assignment . 98
10 Predefined TDL Model Instances . 99
10.1 Overview . 99
10.2 Predefined Instances of the 'SimpleDataType' Element . 99
10.2.1 Boolean . 99
10.2.2 Integer . 99
10.2.3 String . 100
10.2.4 Verdict . 100
10.3 Predefined Instances of 'SimpleDataInstance' Element . 100
10.3.1 True . 100
10.3.2 False . 100
10.3.3 pass . 100
10.3.4 fail . 100
10.3.5 inconclusive . 100
10.4 Predefined Instances of 'Time' Element . 100
10.4.1 Second . 100
10.5 Predefined Instances of the 'PredefinedFunction' Element . 101
10.5.1 Overview . 101
10.5.2 Functions of Return Type 'Boolean' . 101
10.5.3 Functions of Return Type 'Integer' . 102
10.5.4 Functions of Return Type of Instance of 'Time' . 102
10.6 Predefined Instances of the 'AnnotationType' Element . 102
10.6.1 Master . 102
10.6.2 MappingName . 102
10.7 Predefined Instances of 'ConstraintType' Element . 102
10.7.1 length . 102
10.7.2 minLength . 103
10.7.3 maxLength . 103
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6 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
10.7.4 range . 103
10.7.5 format . 103
10.7.6 union . 103
10.7.7 uniontype . 103
Annex A (informative): Technical Representation of the TDL Meta-Model . 104
Annex B (informative): Legacy Examples of a TDL Concrete Textual Syntax . 105
B.1 Introduction . 105
B.2 A 3GPP Conformance Example in Textual Syntax . 105
B.3 An IMS Interoperability Example in Textual Syntax . 107
B.4 An Example Demonstrating TDL Data Concepts . 109
B.5 TDL Legacy Textual Syntax Reference . 111
B.5.1 Conventions for the TDLan Syntax Definition . 111
B.5.2 TDL Textual Syntax EBNF Production Rules . 111
Annex C (informative): Bibliography . 117
History . 118

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7 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
Intellectual Property Rights
Essential patents
IPRs essential or potentially essential to normative deliverables may have been declared to ETSI. The declarations
pertaining to these essential IPRs, if any, are publicly available for ETSI members and non-members, and can be
found in ETSI SR 000 314: "Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs); Essential, or potentially Essential, IPRs notified to
ETSI in respect of ETSI standards", which is available from the ETSI Secretariat. Latest updates are available on the
ETSI Web server (https://ipr.etsi.org/).
Pursuant to the ETSI Directives including the ETSI IPR Policy, no investigation regarding the essentiality of IPRs,
including IPR searches, has been carried out by ETSI. No guarantee can be given as to the existence of other IPRs not
referenced in ETSI SR 000 314 (or the updates on the ETSI Web server) which are, or may be, or may become,
essential to the present document.
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ETSI claims no ownership of these except for any which are indicated as being the property of ETSI, and conveys no
right to use or reproduce any trademark and/or tradename. Mention of those trademarks in the present document does
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DECT™, PLUGTESTS™, UMTS™ and the ETSI logo are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its

Members. 3GPP™ and LTE™ are trademarks of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the 3GPP
Organizational Partners. oneM2M™ logo is a trademark of ETSI registered for the benefit of its Members and of the ®
oneM2M Partners. GSM and the GSM logo are trademarks registered and owned by the GSM Association.
Foreword
This ETSI Standard (ES) has been produced by ETSI Technical Committee Methods for Testing and Specification
(MTS).
The present document is part 1 of a multi-part deliverable covering the Test Description Language, as identified below:
Part 1: "Abstract Syntax and Associated Semantics";
Part 2: "Graphical Syntax";
Part 3: "Exchange Format";
Part 4: "Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)";
Part 5: "UML profile for TDL";
Part 6: "Mapping to TTCN-3";
Part 7: "Extended Test Configurations";
Part 8: "Textual Syntax".
Modal verbs terminology
In the present document "shall", "shall not", "should", "should not", "may", "need not", "will", "will not", "can" and
"cannot" are to be interpreted as described in clause 3.2 of the ETSI Drafting Rules (Verbal forms for the expression of
provisions).
"must" and "must not" are NOT allowed in ETSI deliverables except when used in direct citation.
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8 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
1 Scope
The present document specifies the abstract syntax of the Test Description Language (TDL) in the form of a ®
meta-model based on the OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) [1]. It also specifies the semantics of the individual
elements of the TDL meta-model. The intended use of the present document is to serve as the basis for the development
of TDL concrete syntaxes aimed at TDL users and to enable TDL tools such as documentation generators, specification
analysers and code generators.
The specification of concrete syntaxes for TDL is outside the scope of the present document. However, for illustrative
purposes, an example of a possible textual syntax together with its application on some existing ETSI test descriptions
are provided.
® ® ™ ™
NOTE: OMG , UML , OCL and UTP are the trademarks of OMG (Object Management Group). This
information is given for the convenience of users of the present document and does not constitute an
endorsement by ETSI of the products named.
2 References
2.1 Normative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
Referenced documents which are not found to be publicly available in the expected location might be found at
https://docbox.etsi.org/Reference.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are necessary for the application of the present document. ®
[1] OMG formal/2013-06-01: "OMG Meta Object Facility™ (MOF) Core Specification V2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/MOF/2.4.1/. ®
[2] OMG formal/2011-08-06: "OMG Unified Modeling Language™ (OMG UML), Superstructure,
Version 2.4.1".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/UML/2.4.1/. ®
[3] OMG formal/2014-02-03: "Object Constraint Language™ (OCL), Version 2.4".
NOTE: Available at http://www.omg.org/spec/OCL/2.4/.
[4] Void.
[5] ETSI ES 203 119-3 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 3: Exchange Format".
[6] ETSI ES 203 119-4 (V1.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 4: Structured Test Objective Specification (Extension)".
[7] ISO/IEC 9646-1:1994: "Information technology - Open Systems Interconnection -- Conformance
testing methodology and framework -- Part 1: General concepts".
[8] ETSI ES 203 119-8 (V1.1.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Test
Description Language (TDL); Part 8: Textual Syntax".
ETSI
9 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
2.2 Informative references
References are either specific (identified by date of publication and/or edition number or version number) or
non-specific. For specific references, only the cited version applies. For non-specific references, the latest version of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE: While any hyperlinks included in this clause were valid at the time of publication, ETSI cannot guarantee
their long term validity.
The following referenced documents are not necessary for the application of the present document but they assist the
user with regard to a particular subject area.
[i.1] ETSI ES 201 873-1 (V4.5.1): "Methods for Testing and Specification (MTS); The Testing and
Test Control Notation version 3; Part 1: TTCN-3 Core Language".
[i.2] ETSI TS 136 523-1 (V10.2.0): "LTE; Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) and
Evolved Packet Core (EPC); User Equipment (UE) conformance specification; Part 1: Protocol
conformance specification (3GPP TS 36.523-1 version 10.2.0 Release 10)".
[i.3] ETSI TS 186 011-2 (V3.1.1): "IMS Network Testing (INT); IMS NNI Interoperability Test
Specifications; Part 2: Test Description for IMS NNI Interoperability".
[i.4] ETSI: The TDL Open Source Project Website (last visited 20.12.2021).
NOTE: Available at https://tdl.etsi.org/index.php/open-source.
3 Definition of terms, symbols and abbreviations
3.1 Terms
For the purposes of the present document, the following terms apply:
abstract syntax: graph structure representing a TDL specification in an independent form of any particular encoding
action: any procedure carried out by a component of a test configuration or an actor during test execution
actor: abstraction of entities outside a test configuration that interact directly with the components of that test
configuration
component: active element of a test configuration that is either in the role tester or system under test
concrete syntax: particular representation of a TDL specification, encoded in a textual, graphical, tabular or any other
format suitable for the users of this language
effectively static: any data specification that is statically determined (also recursively for all parameter bindings) and
can be considered constant during the execution
interaction: any form of communication between components that is accompanied with an exchange of data
meta-model: modelling elements representing the abstract syntax of a language
resolved data type: data type of a data use, determined by a referenced data instance, data type, parameter, return type
of a function, or the context where the data use is defined
scope of behaviour: components participating in a behaviour
System Under Test (SUT): role of a component within a test configuration whose behaviour is validated when
executing a test description
TDL model: instance of the TDL meta-model
TDL specification: representation of a TDL model given in a concrete syntax
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10 ETSI ES 203 119-1 V1.6.1 (2022-05)
test configuration: specification of a set of components that contains at least one tester component and o
...