Real-Time Embedded Systems Concepts and Practices

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/real-time-embedded-systems-concepts-practices

Introduction

### Course Review: Real-Time Embedded Systems Concepts and Practices **Course Overview:** "Real-Time Embedded Systems Concepts and Practices" is a specialized course offered on Coursera that caters to both industry professionals and students. This course is noteworthy not only for its practical implications but also because it can be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5315, contributing towards the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree at the prestigious University of Colorado Boulder. This course is designed to provide students with robust knowledge and hands-on experience in designing and building microprocessor-based embedded systems using real-time operating systems (RTOS) and Embedded Linux with RT POSIX extensions. Through a mix of theory and practical applications, learners gain insight into the complexities of integrated embedded system elements aimed at digital command and control. **Course Content and Structure:** The course is structured around a series of modules that delve into the key concepts essential for mastering real-time embedded systems: 1. **Exploration of RT Challenges and Concepts** - In this introductory module, students explore real-time theory and the unique challenges that arise when designing real-time systems. The module also covers various scheduling policies, providing a comparative analysis between Linux POSIX real-time threads and traditional RTOS and MFE systems. This foundation is crucial for understanding the nuances of real-time performance. 2. **Quality of Service Theory from Best Effort to Hard Real-Time** - This module dives into the theory of Quality of Service (QoS) for real-time services. It includes discussions on utility curves for analyzing real-time systems, detailing Rate Monotonic Scheduling Policy and its Least Upper Bound Condition. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of absolute time and date standards, which are pivotal in ensuring the reliability of real-time services. 3. **Scheduling and Concept of Real-Time Services** - Here, students learn about sequencing service requests and various software scheduling methodologies. The focus is on real-time scheduling policies that are vital for system efficiency and responsiveness, addressing the essential ability to prioritize tasks in a timely manner. 4. **Overview of Real-time Hardware Architectures and Software Stacks** - This module provides an overview of multi-core microprocessors used in real-time applications. It discusses different RTOS options, both open source and proprietary, along with operating systems that support POSIX Real-Time Extensions. This comprehensive look at hardware and software options equips students with the knowledge to make informed choices for their embedded systems projects. **Recommendations:** This course is highly recommended for students and professionals interested in the rapidly evolving field of embedded systems. Those who partake will benefit from: - **Hands-On Experience:** The focus on practical applications ensures that learners can apply theoretical concepts in real-world situations, making them job-ready upon completion. - **Industry-Relevant Skills:** Real-time systems are critical in various fields such as automotive, robotics, telecommunications, and more. This course covers contemporary tools and techniques used in the industry today. - **Expert Instruction:** The course is developed by experts from CU Boulder, a leading institution in electrical engineering, ensuring that the content is of high quality and relevance. - **Flexible Learning:** Being available on Coursera means you can learn at your own pace, accommodating professional commitments while still advancing educational goals. In conclusion, "Real-Time Embedded Systems Concepts and Practices" stands out as a comprehensive course for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of embedded systems within a real-time context. Whether pursued for personal development or academic credit, this course is an invaluable investment in your professional future.

Syllabus

Exploration of RT Challenges and Concepts

This module gives an introduction to real-time theory , challenges faced in designing real-time systems and scheduling policies implemented while comparing the Linux POSIX real-time threads to RTOS and MFE systems.

This module describes the utility curves used for analysis of real-time systems along with Rate Monotonic Scheduling Policy and its Least Upper Bound Condition. It also describes the absolute time and date standards which are critical parameters for real-time services.

This module covers the methods of sequencing of service requests along with software scheduling and real-time scheduling policies.

This module discusses the use of multi core microprocessors for real-time applications and gives an overview of RTOS Options (Open and Proprietary) and OS with POSIX Real-Time Extensions for real-time systems.