VLSI, PLC, Microcontrollers, and Assembly Language

Uplatz presents this extensive course on

VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) refers to an integrated circuit (IC) or technology that has several devices on a single chip. The definition of 'how many' is difficult to answer, since as technology advances, numerical definitions become increasingly meaningless. Also it differs by industry: a VLSI analogue part is not the same as a VLSI digital logic or VLSI memory part. The technique of integrating or embedding hundreds of thousands of transistors on a single silicon semiconductor microchip is known as very large-scale integration (VLSI). When advanced level computer processor microchips were being developed in the late 1970s, VLSI technology was envisioned. VLSI is a successor to large-scale integration (LSI), medium-scale integration (MSI) and small-scale integration (SSI) technologies.

PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller, and it is also known as programmable controller. It is a sort of firmware device (device ready to take basic software instructions) that is extensively used in commercial and industrial control applications. The sorts of jobs that PLCs execute, as well as the hardware and software that they require to perform these tasks, might differ from those performed by office computers. A PLC is an industrial solid-state computer that monitors inputs and outputs, and makes logic-based decisions for automated processes or machines. A PLC is typically designed for the control of manufacturing processes or robotic devices where reliability control, simple programming and fault diagnosis is necessary. They were originally built to replace electromechanical relay systems in industrial automation.

A Microcontroller is nothing but a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system. A typical microcontroller includes a processor, memory and input/output (I/O) peripherals on a single chip. Sometimes referred to as an embedded controller or microcontroller unit (MCU), microcontrollers are found in vehicles, robots, office machines, medical devices, mobile radio transceivers, vending machines and home appliances, among other devices. Micro-controllers are essentially simple miniature personal computers (PCs) designed to control small features of a larger component, without a complex front-end operating system (OS). A microcontroller (sometimes called an MCU or Microcontroller Unit) is a single Integrated Circuit (IC) that is typically used for a specific application and designed to implement certain tasks. Products and devices that must be automatically controlled in certain situations, like appliances, power tools, automobile engine control systems, and computers are great examples, but microcontrollers reach much further than just these applications. Essentially, a microcontroller gathers input, processes this information, and outputs a certain action based on the information gathered. Microcontrollers usually operate at lower speeds, around the 1MHz to 200 MHz range, and need to be designed to consume less power because they are embedded inside other devices that can have greater power consumptions in other areas.

Assembly Language can be defined as a low-level programming language. Essentially Assembly Language equates to machine code but is more readable. It can be directly translated into machine code, but it uses mnemonics to represent the instructions to make it easier to understand. In order to convert assembly language into machine code it needs to be translated using an assembler. This converts each statement into the specific machine code needed for the hardware on which it is being run. There is a one-to-one relationship between an assembly language instruction and its machine code equivalent. Each CPU has its own version of machine code and assembly language. Assembly Language consists mostly of symbolic equivalents of a particular computer’s machine language. Computers produced by different manufacturers have different machine languages and require different assemblers and assembly languages. Some assembly languages can be used to convert the code that programmers write (source code) into machine language (readable by the computer) and have functions to facilitate programming (e.g., by combining a sequence of several instructions into one entity). Programming in assembly languages requires extensive knowledge of computer architecture.

This course covers the fundamentals of CMOS and VLSI technologies, then moving on to the basics of Microcontrollers and industrial-use PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers). This training describes in detail the functioning of MSP430 Microcontroller. The course covers Assembly Language from scratch, the basic concepts, structure, syntax and instruction sets of the Assembly Languages, along with 16-bit MS DOS and 32-bit Windows programming.

Here's an outline of the typical career progression:

1. Education:

   • Bachelor's Degree: Start with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Your coursework will cover foundational topics in electronics, control systems, programming, and digital logic.

2. Entry-Level Positions:

   • Junior PLC/Microcontroller Engineer/Intern: Begin your career as an intern or junior engineer, assisting in programming, testing, and troubleshooting PLCs and microcontrollers in industrial or automation projects.

3. Skill Development:

   • Hands-on Experience: Gain practical experience by working on projects involving PLCs, microcontrollers, and automation systems. This could include designing control algorithms, writing code, and configuring hardware.

4. Mid-Level Positions:

   • PLC/Microcontroller Engineer: After a few years of experience, you'll move into mid-level roles where you'll take on more responsibility. This could involve designing and implementing control strategies, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and overseeing projects.

5. Specialization:

   • Automation Engineer, Control Systems Engineer: As you gain expertise, consider specializing in a specific domain, such as industrial automation, robotics, process control, or embedded systems. This could lead to roles that involve designing complex control systems for specific industries.

6. Senior-Level Positions:

   • Senior PLC/Microcontroller Engineer, Team Lead: With significant experience, you'll progress to senior positions. You might lead teams, guide technical decisions, and be responsible for the overall design and performance of automation systems.

7. Advanced Roles:

   • PLC/Microcontroller Architect, Systems Engineer: As your career advances, you might transition to roles that involve system architecture, overseeing the integration of various components, and making high-level decisions about technology choices.

8. Research and Innovation (Optional):

   • Research Scientist, Technology Innovator: If you're interested in pushing the boundaries of PLC and microcontroller technology, you might move into research-focused roles where you explore novel applications and develop new techniques.

9. Consulting or Entrepreneurship (Optional):

   • Consultant, Startup Founder: With a wealth of experience, you might choose to become a consultant, helping companies optimize their control systems. Alternatively, you could start your own company to develop and provide innovative solutions in the field.

Throughout your career, staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in PLCs, microcontrollers, and automation technology will be crucial. This includes learning about new programming languages, communication protocols, hardware platforms, and industry standards. Networking within the industry, attending relevant conferences, and participating in online communities can also contribute to your professional growth as a PLC and microcontroller engineer.