Abstract: This paper discusses the principles of developing software components for real-time systems. The procedure is based on the fundamental concept of a real-time architecture rooted in the feedback control paradigm of control engineering. Generic design patterns for real-time software components are presented, valid for all relevant real-time architectures. Finally, a case study of an air traffic control system based on the CORBA framework is discussed. Tool supportfor component-based design and implementation is presented, including industry-strength commercial off-the-shelf software.