Advanced Armv8-M Features

Arm via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/advanced-armv8-m-features

Introduction

### Course Review: Advanced Armv8-M Features on Coursera #### Overview The "Advanced Armv8-M Features" course offered on Coursera is a specialized educational endeavor aimed at professionals and students familiar with the Arm architecture, specifically the Cortex-M family. This course delves into advanced and optional features that may be configured within a Cortex-M system, focusing on areas that enhance security and performance. It is particularly useful as projects evolve and require more sophisticated solutions. Each module gives learners the flexibility to choose which features to explore based on the particular needs of their projects. #### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Course Introduction** - The course starts by introducing the various advanced features related to Cortex-M systems and encourages learners to tailor their learning experience according to their project demands. This sets a practical tone from the outset. 2. **Synchronization** - This module covers the mechanisms within Armv8-M architecture for managing shared resources in a multi-threaded or multi-processor environment. It is instrumental for developers working on complex applications that require resource sharing among modules. 3. **Cache Management** - A critical module that demystifies cache functionality within M-profile systems. From basic concepts to applied techniques for enhancing performance on devices like the Cortex-M7 and Cortex-M55, this section is immensely valuable for optimizing system responsiveness. 4. **DSP Extension** - This module introduces the optional DSP extension, allowing dedicated instructions for digital signal processing tasks. Perfect for engineers involved in audio, video, or other signal applications, it broadens the capabilities of the Cortex-M devices. 5. **Floating-point Extension** - The focus of this module is on the floating-point hardware capabilities, allowing developers to handle complex calculations efficiently — essential for applications requiring precision. 6. **SysTick Timer Extension** - With the SysTick Timer being a mandatory feature in specific Arm implementations, this module clarifies its role and functionality in timing operations, which is key for real-time applications. 7. **Security Extension (TrustZone for Armv8-M)** - This crucial module covers the Security Extension that introduces a secure execution environment. Understanding this feature is paramount for developers working on applications where security is a prime concern. 8. **PACBTI Extension** - This module describes the newer Pointer Authentication Code and Branch Target Identification features, enhancing security against certain exploitation strategies. Given the increasing importance of security, this module is particularly timely and relevant. 9. **M-profile Vector Extension (MVE)** - This foundational module prepares students for deeper MVE training, discussing architecture features and relevant software support, ultimately equipping them with essential skills for high-performance applications. #### Review and Recommendation The "Advanced Armv8-M Features" course on Coursera stands out as an innovative educational tool that allows professionals in embedded systems to deepen their understanding of Cortex-M architecture. Its modular approach provides the flexibility to focus on specific features, accommodating a broad range of learning needs and project requirements. **Pros:** - Comprehensive coverage of advanced topics relevant to modern Cortex-M projects. - Flexibility in choosing which modules to engage with based on personal or project needs. - The content is delivered in an easy-to-understand format, making complex topics accessible. **Cons:** - Depending on your existing knowledge, some topics may feel advanced; newcomers may want to review foundational concepts beforehand. Overall, I highly recommend this course for engineers, students, and hobbyists involved in embedded systems development. Its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications will surely enhance your ability to create secure and high-performing Cortex-M based solutions. Whether you are just looking to deepen your existing knowledge or need specific insights into advanced features, this course offers invaluable resources!

Syllabus

Course Introduction

The final course covers more advanced and optional features that might be configured in a Cortex-M system. These features could help with particular project requirements such as security and performance. Not all of these topics might be relevant for any given Cortex-M project, so feel free to pick and choose which topics, if any, apply to you.

Synchronization

This module describes the mechanism in the Armv8-M architecture to to share resources like peripherals between different threads and processors in an M-profile system.

Cache Management

This module is aimed to be a top-level module on caches for M-profile systems that covers fundamental cache terminology all the way through to configuring and utilising the cache for improved performance in M-profile systems involving more complex implementations like Cortex-M7 and Cortex-M55.

DSP Extension

The DSP Extension is an optional feature for Armv8-M Mainline implementations that allows allows DSP operations to be executed by a dedicated instructions.

Floating-point Extension

The Floating-point Extension is an optional feature for Armv8-M Mainline implementations that allows allows floating-point operations to be executed by a dedicated floating-point unit (FPU) hardware.

SysTick Timer Extension

This module is about the SysTick Timer, which is mandatory in Armv7-M and Armv8-M Mainline implementations, and optional in Armv6-M and Armv8-M Baseline implementations.

Security Extension (TrustZone for Arm8-M)

This module is about the optional Security Extension in Armv8-M Mainline implementations. The Security Extension is also an option for Armv8-M Baseline implementations.

PACBTI Extension

This module describes the Pointer Authentication Code (PAC) and Branch Target Identification (BTI) Extension introduced as a part of Armv8.1-M architecture.

M-profile Vector Extension (MVE)

This module is an essential foundation module for MVE training course. It introduces the story, architecture features, software and tools support for MVE.