Introduction to Embedded Systems
- Overview of Embedded Systems: Definition, applications, and importance in various industries.
- Microcontroller vs. Microprocessor: Key differences, use cases, and examples.
- Embedded System Architecture: Components, design considerations, and system-on-chip (SoC) basics.
Microcontroller Fundamentals
- Microcontroller Architecture: Detailed study of internal architecture, including ALU, registers, timers, and interrupts.
- Popular Microcontrollers: Overview of widely used microcontrollers such as ARM, AVR, PIC, and their features.
- Programming Microcontrollers: Introduction to assembly language and embedded C programming.
Embedded C Programming
- Basic Concepts: Data types, variables, operators, control structures, and functions.
- Advanced Concepts: Pointers, structures, unions, and bit manipulation.
- Embedded-Specific Programming: Direct memory access, register manipulation, and interrupt handling.
Hardware Interfacing
- Digital and Analog I/O: Understanding GPIO, ADC, DAC, and their interfacing techniques.
- Communication Protocols: SPI, I2C, UART, and CAN bus – their working principles and implementation.
- Peripheral Interfacing: Interfacing with sensors, actuators, displays, and other peripherals.
Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)
- RTOS Fundamentals: Definition, types, and key concepts such as task scheduling, multitasking, and inter-task communication.
- Popular RTOS: Overview of FreeRTOS, VxWorks, and others.
- RTOS Programming: Writing simple programs using an RTOS, task creation, synchronization, and communication.
Embedded Software Development Tools
- Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Introduction to popular IDEs like Keil, MPLAB, and Arduino IDE.
- Compilers and Debuggers: Understanding their role and usage in embedded development.
- Version Control Systems: Basics of Git and its importance in managing code versions.
Embedded System Design and Development
- Design Methodology: Steps involved in designing an embedded system, from requirement analysis to deployment.
- System Specification: Writing clear and concise system specifications.
- Hardware Design: Basics of PCB design, selecting components, and designing circuits.
Testing and Debugging
- Debugging Techniques: Using breakpoints, watch windows, and serial output for debugging.
- Hardware Debugging Tools: Overview of oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and in-circuit debuggers.
- Software Testing: Writing test cases, unit testing, and integration testing.
Power Management
- Power Consumption in Embedded Systems: Importance of power management and strategies to reduce power consumption.
- Low Power Design Techniques: Using sleep modes, power gating, and energy-efficient coding practices.
- Battery Management: Understanding battery types, charging circuits, and battery life estimation.
Security in Embedded Systems
- Importance of Security: Overview of security threats and vulnerabilities in embedded systems.
- Security Measures: Implementing encryption, secure boot, and firmware updates.
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world security incidents and their mitigation strategies.
Industry Applications
- Automotive Systems: Embedded systems in vehicles, including engine control units (ECUs) and infotainment systems.
- Consumer Electronics: Design considerations for home appliances, wearables, and IoT devices.
- Healthcare Devices: Embedded systems in medical devices, focusing on reliability and safety.
Capstone Project
- Project Selection: Choosing a project that incorporates the learned concepts and techniques.
- Project Development: Planning, designing, coding, and testing the embedded system project.
- Presentation and Demonstration: Presenting the project, showcasing functionality, and discussing challenges and solutions.
Career Preparation
- Resume Building: Tailoring resumes for embedded system roles.
- Interview Preparation: Common interview questions, technical tests, and hands-on tasks.
- Industry Insights: Understanding job roles, career paths, and emerging trends in embedded systems.
Conclusion
- Course Summary: Recap of key topics and skills acquired.
- Further Learning: Resources and recommendations for continued learning and professional development.
- Certification: Details on obtaining certification upon successful completion of the course.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in the embedded systems industry. The blend of lectures, hands-on labs, and real-world projects provides a robust foundation for aspiring embedded system professionals.
