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Nguyen Gia Tuan and Farhoud Hosseinpour

All about practical programming and creating IoTs applications!

In this course, we will talk about two components of a cyber-physical system, namely hardware and operating systems.

After completing this course, you will have knowledge of both hardware components and operating systems. You are able to plan and use embedded operating systems in resource-constraint devices for Internet-of-Things (cyber-physical system) applications. In addition, you can use Cooja simulation for designing and simulating wireless sensor network applications.

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All about practical programming and creating IoTs applications!

In this course, we will talk about two components of a cyber-physical system, namely hardware and operating systems.

After completing this course, you will have knowledge of both hardware components and operating systems. You are able to plan and use embedded operating systems in resource-constraint devices for Internet-of-Things (cyber-physical system) applications. In addition, you can use Cooja simulation for designing and simulating wireless sensor network applications.

The course offers 4 modules, each with a graded quiz in the end and finally, one peer-reviewed programming assignment. In case you have no experience with C programming, please check a practical course like: https://www.coursera.org/learn/arduino-platform.

The course is actually quite fun at the end when you play around with Cooja simulation for IoTs applications. So you can create and simulate your own design for sensor network applications. A lot of features and examples of Contiki and Cooja can be explored via assignments. There are some optional assignments of wireless sensor network applications for students who want to explore more about embedded OS in IoTs applications.

- Marco Ramirez /University of Turku

- Igor Tcarenko/ University of Turku

- Nguyen Gia Tuan /University of Turku

Ideate. Innovate. Iterate with EIT Digital

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Embedded Hardware
This week will start from the basic information about Embedded Systems. Specifically, you will learn (1) what are embedded systems and where they are applied as well as (2) the main characteristics and challenges of embedded systems. (3) You will discover how embedded systems communicate with the outer world.
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Processing Elements of an Embedded System
This week we will go into details of what embedded systems consist of. Specifically you learn about the main blocks of any processing element of embedded systems. We will show you what (1) embedded processors consists of and its main features. You will learn what (3) reconfigurable architectures and FPGAs are, and what kind of (4) ready-made platforms you can use to start working with processing elements.
Overview of operating systems and embedded operating systems
In this week, we start with an overview of operating systems and embedded operating systems for IoT. Primary functionalities of embedded operating systems are discussed. We learn how operating systems work: how memory is managed, how tasks are scheduled, what interrupts are and how they are handled. After this, we deepen our learning with the popular kernels for general and embedded operating systems. Linux (monolithic) kernel, micro kernel and modular kernel are presented. In addition, several popular embedded operating systems for IoT are presented. Concretely, after attending this week, you will able to (1) explain why embedded systems often require an operating system (2) describe how an embedded operating system works such as how memory is managed, how tasks are scheduled and how interrupts are handled. (3) You will be able to differentiate between popular kernels for embedded operating systems. (4) Differentiate between popular embedded operating systems for IoT.
Contiki OS and Cooja simulation
In this week, we start to explore the Contiki Os in detail. First we discuss about the Contiki system and its kernel architecture. Furthermore, we explore how loadable programs are actually implemented in Contiki. Second, we go through services and libraries in Contiki to see how they are built and when they can be invoked. Third, we discuss communication in Contiki via details of uIp and Rime communication stacks in Contiki. Next, prototheads are discussed to describe how application code is processed in Contiki. Furthermore, APIs of multi-threading is discussed. Last but not least, the Cooja simulator - a simulator for wireless sensor networks based on Contiki is introduced. All steps of installing and applying Cooja for a wireless sensor network applications are presented in detailed via an example application. Concretely, after attending this week, you will able to (1) describe how Contiki system and its kernel architecture are built. (2) Distinguish Contiki services and libraries in terms of how they are built, when they are invoked and why they are used. (3) Describe how communication is implemented and supported in Contiki and what protocols Contiki can support. (4) Explore how application's code is processed in Contiki and important functions of API for multithreading in Contiki (5) use Cooja for simulating wireless sensor networks applications.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores how to create Internet-of-Things applications
Provides a comprehensive understanding of both hardware components and operating systems
Covers a range of topics, from embedded hardware to Contiki OS and Cooja simulation
Emphasizes practical programming and creating IoT applications
Requires some background in C programming
Designed for learners with an interest in embedded hardware and IoT applications

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Reviews summary

Helpful embedded os course with hands-on labs

Learners say that Embedded Hardware and Operating Systems teaches essential concepts clearly and offers engaging assignments. They appreciate the practical exposure to embedded OSes like Contiki and TinyOS through hands-on labs. However, some difficult exams and outdated course material have been noted as areas for improvement. Overall, this course provides a solid foundation for those interested in embedded systems.
Theoretical information is presented clearly.
"Theoretical information was presented clearly."
Learners gain practical exposure through software installation and coding.
"We can get practical exposure by installing the software and coding accordingly."
Learners reported a lack of support in discussion forums and from course organizers.
"The discussion forum looks abandoned (no replies to topics for more than six months)."
Learners experienced technical issues, such as broken links and installation problems.
"some things don't make sense, this course isn't maintained"
"The course gives a nice introduction in the subject, if you're completely new to the material. The material is hopelessly outdated."
"The classes are good, maybe little simplistic. But it becomes a disaster in the homework of the week 4, the links to the contiki resources are broken"
Some learners encountered outdated assignments and materials, especially in weeks 3 and 4.
"Outdated assignment descriptions (from year 2018!!!)"
"The material is hopelessly outdated."
"The course gives a nice introduction in the subject, if you're completely new to the material. The material is hopelessly outdated."

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 Hardware and Operating Systems with these activities:
Review C programming concepts
Refresh your memory on the basics of C programming before starting this course.
Browse courses on C Programming
Show steps
  • Review online tutorials or documentation
  • Complete practice exercises or coding challenges
Connect with experts in the field of embedded systems and IoT
Gain insights and guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
Browse courses on Embedded Systems
Show steps
  • Attend industry events and conferences
  • Join online communities and forums
  • Reach out to professors or researchers in your field
Compile a list of resources on embedded systems and IoT
Create a valuable resource for yourself and others by compiling a list of relevant materials.
Browse courses on Embedded Systems
Show steps
  • Search for online resources, articles, and tutorials
  • Organize and categorize the resources
  • Share your compilation with the class
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Explore Cooja Simulator Tutorials
Expand your knowledge of Cooja Simulator by following online tutorials, enhancing your ability to simulate wireless sensor networks.
Browse courses on Network Simulation
Show steps
  • Find relevant Cooja tutorials
  • Follow tutorials to learn simulation techniques
  • Experiment with different Cooja settings
Practice embedded hardware concepts
Practice using embedded hardware concepts to strengthen your understanding of the fundamentals.
Browse courses on Embedded Hardware
Show steps
  • Review the basics of embedded hardware
  • Complete hands-on exercises with embedded hardware
  • Troubleshoot common issues with embedded hardware
Explore Contiki and Cooja Tutorials
Enhance your understanding of Contiki and Cooja by exploring official tutorials to gain practical experience with these tools and strengthen your skills in designing and simulating IoT applications.
Show steps
  • Complete the Contiki Getting Started tutorial.
  • Work through the Cooja User Guide.
  • Follow example tutorials for specific sensor network applications.
Practice Contiki OS Tasks
Enhance your understanding of Contiki OS and reinforce task management concepts by practicing with exercises.
Show steps
  • Set up a Contiki OS environment
  • Create a simple Contiki OS application
  • Implement task creation and management
  • Test and debug your tasks
Build a Simple Contiki Application
Reinforce your understanding of Contiki OS and programming concepts by developing a custom Contiki application.
Browse courses on Programming
Show steps
  • Design your application's functionality
  • Choose appropriate Contiki modules and libraries
  • Implement your application logic
  • Test and debug your application
Solve programming challenges related to embedded operating systems
Strengthen your programming skills and reinforce your understanding of embedded operating systems by solving coding challenges.
Show steps
  • Find online platforms or resources that offer programming challenges related to embedded operating systems
  • Select a challenge that matches your skill level
  • Implement a solution to the challenge
  • Test and debug your solution
Explore additional features and examples of Contiki and Cooja
Expand your knowledge of Contiki and Cooja by exploring additional features and examples.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials and documentation on Contiki and Cooja
  • Follow the tutorials and try out the examples provided
  • Experiment with different settings and configurations
Participate in peer-reviewed programming assignments
Improve your coding skills and gain valuable feedback from your peers.
Browse courses on Peer Review
Show steps
  • Join a study group or online forum
  • Collaborate with peers on programming assignments
  • Provide and receive feedback on each other's code
Create a Wireless Sensor Network Application
Embark on a project to design and simulate your own wireless sensor network application using Contiki and Cooja to solidify your understanding of embedded operating systems and IoT applications.
Browse courses on IoT Applications
Show steps
  • Design the sensor network topology and communication protocol.
  • Implement the application logic in Contiki.
  • Simulate the network in Cooja.
  • Analyze the results and make improvements.
Design and simulate a wireless sensor network application
Enhance your understanding of wireless sensor networks and IoT applications by creating and simulating your own design.
Browse courses on Wireless Sensor Networks
Show steps
  • Choose a specific application for your wireless sensor network
  • Design the architecture of your network
  • Use Cooja to simulate your network
  • Analyze the results of your simulation

Career center

Learners who complete Embedded Hardware and Operating Systems will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Embedded Software Engineer
Embedded Software Engineers design, develop, and test embedded software systems for various industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, medical devices, and industrial automation. This course provides a solid foundation in embedded hardware and operating systems, which are essential for success in this role. By understanding the fundamentals of embedded systems, you will be better equipped to design and develop reliable, efficient, and secure software solutions.
Firmware Engineer
Firmware Engineers are responsible for developing and maintaining the firmware that runs on embedded devices. This course provides a comprehensive overview of embedded hardware and operating systems, giving you the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers design and develop the physical components of electronic devices. This course provides a solid foundation in embedded hardware, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how they work, and how to design and implement them.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and integrating complex systems. This course provides a broad overview of embedded hardware and operating systems, giving you the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Test Engineer
Test Engineers are responsible for testing and validating the functionality of electronic devices. This course provides a solid foundation in embedded hardware and operating systems, which is essential for success in this role. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for defining and managing the development of new products. This course may be useful for Product Managers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers are responsible for creating and maintaining technical documentation. This course may be useful for Technical Writers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers are responsible for selling and supporting technical products and services. This course may be useful for Sales Engineers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for planning and executing marketing campaigns. This course may be useful for Marketing Managers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning and executing projects. This course may be useful for Project Managers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing and improving business processes. This course may be useful for Business Analysts who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Software Developer
Software Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. This course may be useful for Software Developers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This course may be useful for Data Analysts who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Web Developer
Web Developers are responsible for designing and developing websites. This course may be useful for Web Developers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.
Graphic designer
Graphic Designers are responsible for creating visual content. This course may be useful for Graphic Designers who want to gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of embedded systems. You will learn about the different types of embedded hardware, how to program them, and how to design and implement embedded operating systems.

Reading list

We've selected nine 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 Hardware and Operating Systems.
Provides both a theoretical foundation for embedded systems and practical applications of that theory. It good resource to learn more about the fundamentals of embedded systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems, including topics such as memory management, process scheduling, and file systems. It good resource to learn more about the fundamentals of operating systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of wireless sensor networks, including topics such as architecture, protocols, and applications. It good resource to learn more about wireless sensor networks.
Provides a comprehensive overview of real-time systems, including topics such as scheduling, synchronization, and fault tolerance. It good resource to learn more about the fundamentals of real-time systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SystemVerilog for Verification, including topics such as learning the testbench language features. It good resource to learn more about SystemVerilog for Verification.
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded microprocessor systems, including topics such as hardware, software, and applications. It good resource to learn more about the fundamentals of embedded microprocessor systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ARM System Developer's Guide, including topics such as designing and optimizing system software. It good resource to learn more about the ARM System Developer's Guide.
Provides a practical guide to designing embedded systems using C and OpenGL ES. It good resource to learn more about how to use C and OpenGL ES to develop embedded systems.
Provides a practical guide to using embedded Linux in real-world applications. It good resource to learn more about how to use embedded Linux in your own projects.

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