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Alex Fosdick
Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture is a first dive into understanding embedded architectures and writing software to manipulate this hardware. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable and portable design practices. We will now transition from the Host Linux Machine where we built and ran code in a simulated environment to an Integrated Development Environment where you will build and install code directly on your ARM Cortex-M4 Microcontroller. Course assignments include writing firmware to interact and configure both the underlying ARM architecture and the MSP432 microcontroller platform. The course concludes with a project where you will develop a circular buffer data structure.
Read more
Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture is a first dive into understanding embedded architectures and writing software to manipulate this hardware. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable and portable design practices. We will now transition from the Host Linux Machine where we built and ran code in a simulated environment to an Integrated Development Environment where you will build and install code directly on your ARM Cortex-M4 Microcontroller. Course assignments include writing firmware to interact and configure both the underlying ARM architecture and the MSP432 microcontroller platform. The course concludes with a project where you will develop a circular buffer data structure.
Read more
Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture is a first dive into understanding embedded architectures and writing software to manipulate this hardware. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable and portable design practices. We will now transition from the Host Linux Machine where we built and ran code in a simulated environment to an Integrated Development Environment where you will build and install code directly on your ARM Cortex-M4 Microcontroller. Course assignments include writing firmware to interact and configure both the underlying ARM architecture and the MSP432 microcontroller platform. The course concludes with a project where you will develop a circular buffer data structure.
In this course you will need the Texas Instruments LaunchPad with the MSP432 microcontroller in order to complete the assignments. Later courses of the Specialization will continue to use this hardware tool to develop even more exciting firmware.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/fhruc3/embedded
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What's inside
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
Manipulating Memory
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.
Designing Embedded Data Structures
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.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Taught by Alex Fosdick, who helped develop the Embedded Systems curriculum at Texas Instruments
Develops embedded system firmware design skills on ARM Cored Microcontrollers, which are standard for embedded systems development
Requires you to purchase specialized equipment in order to complete assignments and projects
Provides hands-on, advanced firmware development techniques for ARM Processors and Texas Instruments Launch Pads
Suitable for learners with some experience in C programming for embedded systems
Save this course
Save Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Informative embedded systems course
Learners say this course is a well paced source of information on embedded systems software. It's an in-depth look at the critical features and practical skills needed for embedded systems development. The course covers a range of important concepts, including CPU architecture, C programming, and good practices. Overall, learners are likely to find the course to be a valuable learning experience.
Instructor is knowledgeable and clear
"The instructor is very clear and easy to understand."
"Excellent explanation with use cases. Anyone with no or little knowledge in Embedded system can improve their skills."
Strong theoretical foundation for embedded systems software development
"A well paced course with an excellent content."
"Once again this course has proven to be extremely informative, offering an in-depth look at the most critical features and skills required for practical embedded systems development."
"The provided information is very useful and the delivery is also great."
Hardware purchase not required or used
"This is more of a basic level C programming classes than Embedded Systems or Hardware Architecture."
"The TI launchpad was never used."
"Not really using the TI launchpad that we are recommended to purchase prior to starting the class"
Course is part of a discontinued specialization
"I knew that specialization will not be available, but I was looking for for the practical use in assigments, so I bought Launchpad."
"The course is very expensive for the value ($100 !). The third and final week does not even include slides from the lectures."
Lacks practical application and exercises
"I was expecting that there would be more hands on assignments to use the MSP432 board, and actually do some programming."
"The contents of this course are very useful, but don't match the description, at all."
"The course presents several interesting concepts, but the lack of practical tasks makes the course loose a lot of its potential."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture with these
activities:
Join an Embedded Systems Community
Show steps
Engage with other embedded systems enthusiasts and professionals. Share your knowledge, learn from others, and stay updated on the latest industry trends and developments.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Identify and join online forums or social media groups dedicated to embedded systems.
-
Attend local meetups or industry events related to embedded systems.
-
Contribute to open-source projects or share your own embedded systems knowledge through blog posts or presentations.
Read 'Embedded C Programming and the Atmel AVR'
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of embedded C programming and microcontroller programming techniques. This book provides valuable insights and practical examples to complement the course material.
Show steps
-
Locate a copy of the book.
-
Read the chapters relevant to the course topics.
-
Complete the exercises and examples provided in the book.
Explore ARM Cortex-M4 Documentation
Show steps
Examine the official documentation for the ARM Cortex-M4 processor to deepen your understanding of its architecture and capabilities.
Show steps
-
Locate the ARM website and navigate to the Cortex-M4 documentation.
-
Review the processor's technical reference manual and datasheet.
-
Familiarize yourself with the Cortex-M4's core architecture, memory system, and peripheral features.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend an Embedded Systems Workshop
Show steps
Participate in hands-on workshops to enhance your practical skills in embedded systems design and programming.
Browse courses on
Hands-On Learning
Show steps
-
Research and identify embedded systems workshops that align with your interests and learning goals.
-
Register and attend the workshop, actively participating in the hands-on activities.
-
Network with other participants and instructors, exchanging knowledge and experiences.
Develop C Programs for ARM Core Microcontrollers
Show steps
Write simple C programs that interface with the ARM core and manipulate its memory and peripherals. This hands-on approach will solidify your understanding of the underlying architecture.
Show steps
-
Set up an ARM development environment using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
-
Create new C projects and write code to access and manipulate ARM registers.
-
Experiment with bitfields to configure microcontroller peripherals.
-
Test and debug your programs using on-target debugging tools.
Solve Embedded Data Structure Problems
Show steps
Practice designing and implementing efficient data structures within the constraints of embedded systems. This will enhance your problem-solving skills and optimize your code.
Browse courses on
Data Manipulation
Show steps
-
Review basic data structures like unions, enumerations, and structures.
-
Explore more advanced concepts like linked lists and queues.
-
Solve coding challenges that require you to implement data structures in an embedded context.
Design a Circular Buffer Data Structure
Show steps
Implement a circular buffer data structure to manage data flow within an embedded system. This project will challenge you to apply your knowledge of data structures and embedded programming.
Show steps
-
Define the requirements and specifications for the circular buffer.
-
Design the data structure and its associated operations.
-
Implement the circular buffer in C or another suitable embedded programming language.
-
Test and debug the circular buffer implementation.
-
Optimize the circular buffer for performance and resource utilization.
Mentor Junior Embedded Systems Developers
Show steps
Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring junior embedded systems developers. This will reinforce your understanding and contribute to the growth of the embedded systems community.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to mentor junior developers through online platforms or local organizations.
-
Provide guidance, support, and encouragement to your mentees.
-
Share your best practices, industry insights, and career advice.
Join an Embedded Systems Community
Show steps
Engage with other embedded systems enthusiasts and professionals. Share your knowledge, learn from others, and stay updated on the latest industry trends and developments.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and join online forums or social media groups dedicated to embedded systems.
- Attend local meetups or industry events related to embedded systems.
- Contribute to open-source projects or share your own embedded systems knowledge through blog posts or presentations.
Read 'Embedded C Programming and the Atmel AVR'
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of embedded C programming and microcontroller programming techniques. This book provides valuable insights and practical examples to complement the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Locate a copy of the book.
- Read the chapters relevant to the course topics.
- Complete the exercises and examples provided in the book.
Explore ARM Cortex-M4 Documentation
Show steps
Examine the official documentation for the ARM Cortex-M4 processor to deepen your understanding of its architecture and capabilities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Locate the ARM website and navigate to the Cortex-M4 documentation.
- Review the processor's technical reference manual and datasheet.
- Familiarize yourself with the Cortex-M4's core architecture, memory system, and peripheral features.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend an Embedded Systems Workshop
Show steps
Participate in hands-on workshops to enhance your practical skills in embedded systems design and programming.
Browse courses on
Hands-On Learning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify embedded systems workshops that align with your interests and learning goals.
- Register and attend the workshop, actively participating in the hands-on activities.
- Network with other participants and instructors, exchanging knowledge and experiences.
Develop C Programs for ARM Core Microcontrollers
Show steps
Write simple C programs that interface with the ARM core and manipulate its memory and peripherals. This hands-on approach will solidify your understanding of the underlying architecture.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set up an ARM development environment using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
- Create new C projects and write code to access and manipulate ARM registers.
- Experiment with bitfields to configure microcontroller peripherals.
- Test and debug your programs using on-target debugging tools.
Solve Embedded Data Structure Problems
Show steps
Practice designing and implementing efficient data structures within the constraints of embedded systems. This will enhance your problem-solving skills and optimize your code.
Browse courses on
Data Manipulation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic data structures like unions, enumerations, and structures.
- Explore more advanced concepts like linked lists and queues.
- Solve coding challenges that require you to implement data structures in an embedded context.
Design a Circular Buffer Data Structure
Show steps
Implement a circular buffer data structure to manage data flow within an embedded system. This project will challenge you to apply your knowledge of data structures and embedded programming.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the requirements and specifications for the circular buffer.
- Design the data structure and its associated operations.
- Implement the circular buffer in C or another suitable embedded programming language.
- Test and debug the circular buffer implementation.
- Optimize the circular buffer for performance and resource utilization.
Mentor Junior Embedded Systems Developers
Show steps
Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring junior embedded systems developers. This will reinforce your understanding and contribute to the growth of the embedded systems community.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to mentor junior developers through online platforms or local organizations.
- Provide guidance, support, and encouragement to your mentees.
- Share your best practices, industry insights, and career advice.
Career center
Learners who complete Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineers design, develop, and test embedded systems. Embedded systems are computer systems that are designed to be embedded in a larger system, such as a car or a medical device. Embedded Systems Engineers must have a strong understanding of hardware and software. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become an Embedded Systems Engineer. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Embedded Firmware Developer
Embedded Firmware Developer
Embedded Firmware Developers are responsible for writing, debugging, and maintaining firmware for embedded systems. Firmware is the software that runs on embedded devices, such as microcontrollers and microprocessors. Embedded Firmware Developers must have a strong understanding of hardware architecture, operating systems, and programming languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become an Embedded Firmware Developer. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test hardware systems. Hardware systems include electronic circuits, printed circuit boards, and computer systems. Hardware Engineers must have a strong understanding of electrical engineering and computer science. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a Hardware Engineer. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. Software applications are computer programs that are used to perform a variety of tasks, such as word processing, web browsing, and gaming. Software Engineers must have a strong understanding of programming languages and software development methodologies. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a Software Engineer. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists conduct research in the field of computer science. Computer science is the study of computation, data, and information. Computer Scientists develop new algorithms and data structures, and they design and implement new computer systems. This course will help you build a foundation in computer science. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems. Electrical systems include power systems, telecommunications systems, and computer systems. Electrical Engineers must have a strong understanding of electrical engineering and computer science. This course will help you build a foundation in electrical engineering. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts design, develop, and implement computer systems. Computer systems include hardware, software, and networks. Computer Systems Analysts must have a strong understanding of computer science and information technology. This course will help you build a foundation in computer systems analysis. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write, debug, and maintain computer programs. Computer programs are instructions that tell computers what to do. Computer Programmers must have a strong understanding of programming languages and software development methodologies. This course will help you build a foundation in computer programming. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, develop, and implement systems. Systems can include hardware, software, and networks. Systems Engineers must have a strong understanding of systems engineering and project management. This course may help you build a foundation in systems engineering. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers plan, implement, and manage information technology systems. Information technology systems include hardware, software, and networks. Information Technology Managers must have a strong understanding of information technology and business management. This course may help you build a foundation in information technology management. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. Websites are collections of web pages that are accessible on the internet. Web Developers must have a strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This course may help you build a foundation in web development. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. Data can be used to make decisions, solve problems, and improve processes. Data Analysts must have a strong understanding of statistics and data analysis techniques. This course may help you build a foundation in data analysis. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. Databases are collections of data that are organized in a way that makes it easy to access and manage. Database Administrators must have a strong understanding of database management systems. This course may help you build a foundation in database administration. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Network Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain networks. Networks are systems that connect computers and other devices. Network Administrators must have a strong understanding of networking technologies. This course may help you build a foundation in network administration. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialist
Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to computer users. Computer Support Specialists must have a strong understanding of computer hardware and software. This course may help you build a foundation in computer support. You will gain experience writing low-level firmware to directly interface hardware with highly efficient, readable, and portable design practices.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fhruc3/embedded
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture.
Save
This textbook provides a solid foundation in embedded systems architecture and design, giving you the knowledge and skills needed to create reliable and efficient embedded systems.
Is an essential resource for embedded systems programmers, providing an in-depth exploration of hardware architectures and software design principles.
This comprehensive guide covers the architecture of the ARM Cortex-M4 processor, making it valuable for understanding the underlying hardware concepts.
Presents a model-based approach to embedded systems engineering, focusing on the design and analysis of embedded systems.
Save
Combines fundamental theoretical concepts with practical implementation details, providing a comprehensive understanding of microcontrollers.
Will help learners grasp embedded software architecture concepts and develop the skills needed to implement them on microcontrollers or DSPs.
Is an excellent resource for learning about AVR microcontrollers and embedded systems, using both assembly and C programming.
Provides a practical approach to embedded system programming, with a focus on real-world examples and hands-on tutorials.
Explores advanced topics in embedded computing, including multicore architectures and real-time operating systems.
Focuses on PIC microcontroller architecture and design principles, providing valuable insights for embedded system development.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fhruc3/embedded
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Effort
5-6 hours per week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Alex Fosdick
Language
English
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Good to know
Taught by Alex Fosdick, who helped develop the Embedded Systems curriculum at Texas Instruments
Develops embedded system firmware design skills on ARM Cored Microcontrollers, which are standard for embedded systems development
Requires you to purchase specialized equipment in order to complete assignments and projects
Provides hands-on, advanced firmware development techniques for ARM Processors and Texas Instruments Launch Pads
Suitable for learners with some experience in C programming for embedded systems
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