This paper describes how correctness and robustness of componentbased systems can be improved by categorising exceptions by
component state and cause, and handling them accordingly. Further, it is shown how this model is supported in C++ in a COM-based
environment, also simplifying the code for exception detection, signalling, and handling.
Acknowledgement Many thanks to Are F. TjØnn and Johannes Hermanrud who supported both the development and the writing of this paper. Thanks
also to Daniel Vatier and Egil P. Andersen for reviewing the paper and to rest of the BRIX team for providing an inspiring
working environment.