Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/embedded-software-hardware

Introduction

## Course Review: Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture ### Overview The **Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture** course is a compelling introduction for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of embedded systems. Offered by a reputable institution on Coursera, this course is designed for learners who are eager to combine software development with hardware manipulation, focusing specifically on ARM core microcontrollers. With an emphasis on writing low-level firmware, the course sets out to equip participants with the skills needed to efficiently interface with embedded platforms using high-quality, portable code. ### Syllabus Breakdown #### Module 1: Interfacing C-Programs with ARM Core Microcontrollers The first module lays the groundwork for understanding how embedded software interacts with processor architecture. Learners will delve into topics such as processor architecture, memory systems, and microcontroller peripherals. This knowledge is crucial, as embedded software demands a nuanced understanding of the underlying hardware to write effective and bug-free code. The instructor emphasizes good software design practices, ensuring that students learn how to create maintainable code that retains high performance. #### Module 2: Manipulating Memory Transitioning to more advanced concepts, Module 2 challenges learners to develop intricate firmware for microcontrollers. Students will explore memory manipulation techniques, enhancing their ability to configure microcontroller peripherals. The inclusion of pointers and register definition files adds a layer of complexity, diving deep into the workings of interrupt vector tables. Additionally, on-target debugging techniques are covered, offering hands-on experience that reinforces theoretical knowledge with practical application. #### Module 3: Designing Embedded Data Structures The final module shifts focus to data organization, a crucial element of effective embedded system programming. Students will learn how to employ structured data, such as unions and enumerations, to track control flows and data manipulation efficiently. The course takes a holistic approach, introducing abstract data structures commonly found in higher-level software, providing learners with a versatile toolkit applicable across various programming environments. ### Recommendation The **Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture** course is highly recommended for anyone interested in the field of embedded systems. It is especially beneficial for: - **Programming Enthusiasts**: Those with a passion for coding who wish to apply their skills at a hardware level will find this course engaging and rewarding. - **Engineering Students**: Students studying electrical engineering or computer science will benefit tremendously, as they can apply the principles learned directly to their field. - **Professionals Transitioning to Embedded Systems**: Practitioners in software engineering looking to pivot to embedded systems will find this course equips them with relevant skills quickly. ### Conclusion In summary, the **Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture** course is a robust and well-structured program that effectively marries theory with practice in the realm of embedded systems. Its comprehensive syllabus fosters a solid understanding of both software and hardware interactions, making it a valuable educational investment. With the demand for skilled embedded software engineers on the rise, this course is a progressive step toward a promising career pathway in technology. If you’re ready to take on the challenge of embedded development, look no further—enroll in this course today and start your journey towards mastering embedded architectures!

Syllabus

Interfacing C-Programs with ARM Core Microcontrollers

Module 1 will introduce the learner to how software/firmware can interface with an embedded platform and the underlying processor architecture. Embedded Software engineers must be very knowledgeable about the architecture in order to write efficient and bug free code. This requires knowledge of processor architecture. memory systems, microcontroller peripherals and more advanced use of the compiler. This module will continue to enforce good software design techniques with a focus on portability and maintainability without reducing your hardware’s performance.

Module 2 will introduce the learner to more advanced firmware techniques as well move us into some hands on firmware for the microcontroller. We start by building our own memory access methods that will allow a programmer to manipulate peripheral memory bit fields to configure microcontroller peripherals and core architecture concepts. This will include more complex use of pointers for register definition files and function pointers for interrupt vector tables The module concludes with an in-depth look into the features of on-target debugging on a microcontroller and a hands-on example.

Module 3 will introduce the learner to efficient and maintainable ways of organizing data. Most microcontroller programs require some use of structured data in order to track and manipulate the control flow or data in a program. These can be as simple as unions, enumerations or structures, but can be more complex with the use of abstract data structures. While abstract data structures are often discussed in higher level software, there are many simple examples that are used frequently in embedded system software.