Introduction to Embedded Systems Software and Development Environments

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/introduction-embedded-systems

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Embedded Systems Software and Development Environments on Coursera Are you interested in the fascinating world of embedded systems? If you're looking to expand your skills in embedded software development, then the **Introduction to Embedded Systems Software and Development Environments** course on Coursera may be the perfect fit for you. This course is structured to provide learners with practical coding experience and hands-on project work, primarily focusing on ARM-based microcontrollers. #### Course Overview The course is designed to give students a solid foundation in embedded software development. It emphasizes real-world coding experience, focusing on integrating various tools and techniques essential for building embedded applications. Throughout the course, you will gain insights into critical concepts such as software configuration management while developing embedded software applications, making it highly relevant for today's tech landscape. #### Syllabus Breakdown **Module 1: Embedded System Development Components** The course kicks off with an introduction to the core components of the embedded system software development process. You will revisit fundamental C programming concepts while exploring the essential hardware and software components crucial in embedded systems. You will be introduced to different development environments, version control systems like Git, and will set up a virtual machine to complete initial assignments. This foundational knowledge ensures that you are equipped with the basic tools before delving deeper into the subject. **Module 2: Compilation with GCC and GNU Make** In the second module, learners will delve into building systems, focusing on the GNU Toolchain, GCC, and GNU Make. You will understand how to effectively translate high-level programming languages into architecture-specific implementations. More importantly, you will create your own build systems, applying best practices to ensure clean and efficient software design. This knowledge is essential for any software engineer and is particularly relevant to embedded systems development. **Module 3: Memory Types, Segments and Management** Understanding memory management is crucial for any embedded developer. This module tackles important concepts such as memory systems, memory types, and the significance of differentiating between program code and data. You will also learn about the specific memory management practices relevant to various architectures, which is a must-have skill for working with embedded systems. **Final Assessment** To wrap up the course, you will have the opportunity to synthesize your learning by writing memory manipulation software, incorporating it into your build system, and running test functions. This final assignment is complemented by peer code reviews, fostering a collaborative learning environment where students can grow from each other's experiences and receive constructive feedback—an invaluable part of the software engineering profession. #### Pros and Cons **Pros:** - **Hands-On Experience:** The course focuses on practical assignments, giving you the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned immediately. - **Comprehensive Coverage:** It covers essential topics, from the basics of embedded systems to intricate details like memory management. - **Peer Interaction:** Engaging with fellow learners through code reviews provides invaluable feedback and enhances learning. **Cons:** - **Time-Intensive:** The course may require a considerable time commitment, especially if you are new to embedded systems. - **Prerequisite Knowledge:** A basic understanding of C programming is beneficial, and some learners might find it challenging if they lack foundational knowledge. #### Recommendation If you have an interest in embedded systems or a desire to develop skills that are highly applicable in today’s tech industry, I highly recommend the **Introduction to Embedded Systems Software and Development Environments** course. With its practical approach and thorough curriculum, this course is a significant stepping stone for anyone aspiring to become proficient in embedded software development. Whether you're a student, a professional looking to upskill, or simply an enthusiast wanting to learn more, this course will provide you with both theoretical foundations and practical skills to excel in the field of embedded systems. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the exciting realm of embedded software development!

Syllabus

Embedded System Development Components

Module 1 will introduce the learner to the components of your embedded system software development process. This module will be a quick overview for many topics with detailed analysis to follow in later modules and courses. We start with defining the hardware and software building blocks of Embedded Systems which will include a C-programming refresher. Next you will learn about the important tools a developer will need to use to help design, build and manage their designs. This includes development environments, version control and the hardware kits to install on. Learners will install and use a Virtual machine to complete Week 1 Application Assignment.

Module 2 will introduce the learner to the software development build system. Most software engineers are very knowledgeable about their build system as we need them to translate our high-level software languages to our architecture specific implementations. There are some important platform and architecture concepts that are introduced in the build system to help enforce good software design techniques. Learners will create their own build systems and utilize build tools to analyze their embedded software implementations.

Module 3 will begin to introduce important embedded concepts like the memory systems in their design. Learners will understand how the software to hardware mapping occurs for their designs including differentiating between your program code and your program data. Memory systems have many platform and architecture dependencies, and you will begin to learn about some of the fundamental concepts a software engineer needs to know to utilize all parts of an embedded system’s memory.

During this week you are to going to combine what you have learned in modules 1-3 to write some memory manipulation software, incorporate into your build system and then run some test functions. At the end of the assignment you will perform a detailed code review of other learners’ software. Reviewing other learners code is very important for both your growth of software design but also for the coder to gain valuable feedback. Professional software engineering regularly go through software reviews when developing code.