Microcontroller Programming for Power Electronics Engineers from Udemy

The course will describe how to use the The course is targeted towards beginners who are new to microcontroller programming and therefore, is ideal for electrical engineering undergraduates and graduate students who will be seeking their first job in the power industry. The course describes how a student can setup a basic home lab for the course, as this course is a hardware course and needs basic electronic equipment for hands-on experience. The course covers both theory and programming. The emphasis of the course is on creating projects and on programming the microcontroller. However, to make the material complete, the course deals with microcontroller architecture and describes the working of the processor and the peripherals.

The course will begin with very simple examples such as how to make LEDs glow and flash. However, it will progress to more practical scenarios as found in power electronics applications where gating signals will be produced for practical converters. The course will also describe how the microcontroller can be used for control applications by feeding measured signals into the microcontroller and processing them. The course will use the Code Composer Studio IDE provided for free by Texas Instruments and also example projects and starter files provided through the C2000Ware package. The course will describe how necessary software can be be downloaded and how the student can interpret and understand the example projects.

To be able to complete all examples in this course, the student will need to setup a home electronics lab which will cost around USD 150. Details of the components required are described in the introduction and all videos in the introduction are preview enabled.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Basic features of the ti tms320f28069 microcontroller
Installing and using code composer studio ide
Installing and using c2000ware from ti
Basic microcontroller architecture and operation
Setting up projects and understanding compiler options and dependencies

Understanding and interpreting example projects from ti
Controlling gpio pins
Using timers and interrupts
Using the enhanced pulse width modulation module
Receiving analog signals using the analog to digital converter

Basic features of the ti tms320f28069 microcontroller
Installing and using code composer studio ide
Installing and using c2000ware from ti
Basic microcontroller architecture and operation
Setting up projects and understanding compiler options and dependencies
Understanding and interpreting example projects from ti
Controlling gpio pins
Using timers and interrupts
Using the enhanced pulse width modulation module
Receiving analog signals using the analog to digital converter

Syllabus

Introduction

Welcome

Target audience

Course requirements

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Uses the Code Composer Studio IDE and C2000Ware package from Texas Instruments, which are industry-standard tools for microcontroller programming in power electronics

Begins with simple examples like making LEDs glow and flash, then progresses to practical scenarios found in power electronics applications, easing learners into more complex topics

Requires learners to set up a home electronics lab costing around USD 150, which may be a barrier for some students without access to these resources

Covers microcontroller architecture and operation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the processor and peripherals, which is essential for power electronics applications

Focuses on creating projects and programming the microcontroller, offering hands-on experience that is valuable for practical application in the power industry

Emphasizes the use of microcontrollers for control applications by processing measured signals, which is a core skill for power electronics engineers working on converter control

Reviews summary

Microcontroller programming for power electronics

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation in microcontroller programming specifically for power electronics applications using the TI TMS320F28069. Students praise the practical focus and hands-on projects, which are considered highly relevant to the field. While setting up the necessary hardware lab can be a challenge and an additional cost, many find the step-by-step guidance on using the Code Composer Studio IDE and C2000Ware to be very helpful. The course is seen as particularly beneficial for beginners in this specific domain, although those with some prior experience might find the initial pace slow.

Detailed guidance on Code Composer Studio.

"Learning to use the Code Composer Studio IDE effectively was a major plus."

"The sections on installing and navigating C2000Ware examples were very useful."

"Instructor walks you through project setup and compiler options thoroughly."

"Good coverage of the necessary software tools provided by Texas Instruments."

Provides a solid introduction for newcomers.

"As someone new to microcontrollers in power electronics, this course was a perfect starting point."

"It covers the fundamentals well, suitable for beginners in this specific area."

"If you're an electrical engineering student wanting to learn TI C2000 for power applications, this is ideal."

"Some prior programming knowledge helps, but it's accessible even with limited background."

Step-by-step guidance is very helpful.

"The instructor does a fantastic job of explaining complex topics clearly, especially the hardware interaction."

"I appreciated the step-by-step instructions for setting up the IDE and hardware."

"The explanations on using Code Composer Studio and navigating C2000Ware were very thorough."

"Lessons build logically, making it easy to follow along even as a beginner."

Hands-on projects are highly relevant.

"The focus on practical applications using the TI board is extremely useful for power electronics engineers."

"I found the labs and projects where we applied concepts to generating gating signals invaluable for my work."

"The hands-on approach to programming the microcontroller for specific power electronics tasks made the material stick."

"Great course for applying theory directly to real-world scenarios."

Requires purchasing and setting up hardware.

"Be aware you need to purchase a specific TI board and other components, which adds to the cost."

"Setting up the hardware lab was a bit challenging initially, but necessary for the hands-on practice."

"The course clearly states the hardware requirement upfront, which is fair, but it is an extra step and expense."

"Make sure you have the necessary board and equipment before starting the course."

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 Microcontroller Programming for Power Electronics Engineers with these activities:

Review Embedded Systems Fundamentals

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Solidify your understanding of embedded systems concepts to better grasp microcontroller programming principles.

Browse courses on Embedded Systems

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Review notes from previous embedded systems courses.
Work through introductory examples on embedded systems.
Familiarize yourself with common embedded system architectures.

Read 'Programming Embedded Systems' by Barr

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Gain a deeper understanding of embedded systems programming with a focus on C and GNU tools.

View Programming Embedded Systems: With C and GNU... on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to microcontroller architecture and programming.
Work through the example code provided in the book.
Adapt the examples to the specific microcontroller used in the course.

Practice GPIO Control Exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of GPIO control by completing a series of practical exercises.

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Write code to toggle an LED on and off using a GPIO pin.
Implement a simple input/output system using GPIO pins and a button.
Experiment with different GPIO configurations and settings.

Four other activities

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Document Your Learning Journey

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Improve retention by documenting your learning process, challenges, and solutions.

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Create a blog or online journal to record your progress.
Document the code you write, explaining the purpose and functionality.
Reflect on the challenges you face and how you overcame them.

Explore 'Designing Embedded Systems with Arduino'

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Broaden your understanding of embedded systems with a focus on practical Arduino projects.

View Make: Sensors: A Hands-On Primer for Monitoring... on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to interfacing with sensors and actuators.
Adapt the Arduino examples to the TI microcontroller used in the course.
Explore different communication protocols used in Arduino projects.

Build a Simple PWM-Controlled LED Dimmer

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Apply your knowledge of PWM to control the brightness of an LED, simulating a basic power electronics application.

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Configure the microcontroller's PWM module.
Write code to adjust the PWM duty cycle based on user input.
Connect an LED to the PWM output and observe the brightness changes.

Create a Presentation on Microcontroller Applications in Power Electronics

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Deepen your understanding by researching and presenting on real-world applications of microcontrollers in power electronics.

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Research different applications of microcontrollers in power electronics.
Prepare a presentation outlining the applications, benefits, and challenges.
Present your findings to your peers or colleagues.

Career center

Learners who complete Microcontroller Programming for Power Electronics Engineers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Power Electronics Engineer

A power electronics engineer designs and develops electronic systems for power conversion, control, and conditioning. This course is highly relevant, as the course title mentions the role directly. It teaches microcontroller programming specifically for power electronics applications. The course progresses from basic examples to practical scenarios like producing gating signals for converters. Power electronics engineers leverage microcontrollers, which this course details along with their architecture and operation. Students will be able to confidently work with Code Composer Studio IDE, example projects, and starter files, as power electronics engineers often do.

See salaries and explore the career path for Power Electronics Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

An embedded systems engineer designs, develops, and tests embedded systems, which are computer systems with a dedicated function within a larger mechanical or electrical system. This course may be useful as it provides hands-on experience with microcontroller programming, which is a core skill for embedded systems engineers. The course covers the architecture and operation of microcontrollers, and emphasizes creating projects and programming, focusing on the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069. The course also addresses reading analog sensors using the Analog to Digital Converter. Furthermore, the course describes setting up a home electronics lab, essentials for any budding embedded systems engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

A control systems engineer designs and implements systems to control dynamic systems, for example in robotics, aerospace, and automotive applications. Control systems rely heavily on feedback and microcontroller-based processing. The course may be useful because it describes how a microcontroller can be used for control applications along with receiving analog signals which are then fed into the microcontroller. This course also covers the use of timers and interrupts, essential for implementing real-time control algorithms. The course's emphasis on hands-on projects using the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069 microcontroller also provides very relevant and specific experience for a control systems engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Control Systems Engineer

Firmware Engineer

A firmware engineer develops the software that controls hardware devices. This course may be useful as it offers targeted training in microcontroller programming, crucial for firmware development. The course covers microcontroller architecture, setting up development environments, and using peripherals which are all essential to the firmware engineer. Students will gain experience with creating and debugging firmware using Code Composer Studio and the C2000Ware package. This course also enables someone interested in becoming a firmware engineer to acquire hands-on experience, including setting up a home electronics lab.

See salaries and explore the career path for Firmware Engineer

Robotics Engineer

A robotics engineer designs, builds, and programs robots. Microcontrollers are at the heart of most robotic systems for performing calculations and interfacing with sensors and actuators. This course may be useful as it provides a solid foundation in microcontroller programming, including controlling GPIO pins, using timers and interrupts, and receiving analog signals via the ADC. Robotics applications commonly require real-time control, which this course touches upon. The course's use of the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069 microcontroller gives aspiring robotics engineers experience with a widely used platform.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Automation Engineer

An automation engineer designs, develops, and implements automated systems in manufacturing or other industries. Automation often relies on microcontrollers for real-time control and data acquisition. The course may be useful as it covers microcontroller programming, including the use of timers, interrupts, and analog-to-digital conversion, making it valuable for control systems applications. Automation engineers can benefit from the hands-on experience with the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069 microcontroller, as well as the focus on practical projects and coding.

See salaries and explore the career path for Automation Engineer

Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment. The course may be useful to electrical engineers who want to specialize in microcontroller applications, particularly within power electronics. It provides hands-on experience with setting up a home electronics lab and programming microcontrollers using industry-standard tools like Code Composer Studio. Electrical engineers can use the knowledge gained in the course to work on projects involving embedded systems and power control.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Hardware Engineer

A hardware engineer designs, develops, and tests computer hardware. Microcontroller knowledge is crucial for hardware engineers working on embedded systems or interacting with digital circuits. This course may be useful because it provides a practical introduction to microcontroller architecture, peripherals, and programming. The specific focus on the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069 may provide hardware engineers with experience on a common microcontroller platform. The course's emphasis on setting up a home lab may also be useful given that hardware engineers need hands-on experience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer

Mechatronics Engineer

A mechatronics engineer integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to design automated systems. Microcontrollers are at the heart of mechatronic systems integrating sensors, actuators, and control algorithms. The course may be useful because it introduces the fundamentals of microcontroller programming. The hands-on projects and practical examples, using the Texas Instruments TMS320F28069 microcontroller, will show how to design and implement embedded control systems. Mechatronics engineers can utilize the knowledge gained to develop custom solutions for automated machines and devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer

Energy Systems Engineer

An energy systems engineer designs and optimizes energy generation, distribution, and consumption systems. Microcontrollers play a role in energy management systems, smart grids, and renewable energy converters. The course may be useful if it helps the energy systems engineer who wants to gain practical skills in microcontroller programming, especially for power electronics applications. The course's emphasis on hands-on experience and project-based learning, using tools like Code Composer Studio, will allow engineers to implement, simulate, and test their energy systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Systems Engineer

Power System Protection Engineer

A power system protection engineer designs and implements systems to protect electrical power grids from faults and disturbances. Microcontrollers are increasingly used in protection relays and control systems to provide intelligent protection. The course may be useful because it provides insight into microcontroller architecture, programming, and interfacing with analog signals. The focus on generating gating signals for converters aligns with the control aspects of power system protection. The power system protection engineer may find that this course provides a starting point for implementing custom protection algorithms.

See salaries and explore the career path for Power System Protection Engineer

Internet of Things Engineer

An Internet of Things engineer designs and develops connected devices and systems. These devices often contain microcontrollers for sensing, processing, and communication. The course may be useful as it teaches the fundamentals of microcontroller programming. Understanding microcontroller architecture, peripherals, and programming techniques helps the Internet of Things engineer develop custom firmware for their devices. Specifically, this course's discussion of GPIO pins and ADC may be valuable. An Internet of Things engineer can also benefit from the hands-on approach, setting up and testing microcontroller-based circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Internet of Things Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

An aerospace engineer designs, develops, and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. These are used in guidance systems, engine control, and other embedded applications. The course may be useful because experience in microcontroller programming will allow the aerospace engineer to control components of aerospace vehicles. The use of timers, interrupts, and analog signal processing, as covered in this course, may apply to aerospace control systems. Experience in setting up and coding a microcontroller system can be valuable to the aerospace engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Systems Engineer

A systems engineer focuses on the overall design, integration, and management of complex systems. While they may not directly program microcontrollers, understanding the underlying technology is beneficial. The course may be useful because it exposes the systems engineer to the workings of microcontrollers and the complexities of embedded systems. This knowledge facilitates better communication and collaboration with hardware and software teams. The hands-on experience and practical examples help the systems engineer appreciate the challenges involved in embedded system development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Product Development Engineer

A product development engineer is involved in the design and launch of new products. This encompasses many fields, and many products today contain embedded electronics. The course may be useful to product development engineers who want to understand the role of microcontrollers in product design. Familiarity with microcontroller architecture, peripherals, and programming techniques, along with the ability to set up and test microcontroller circuits, enhances the product development engineer's ability to oversee the integration of microcontrollers into new products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Development Engineer

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Microcontroller Programming for Power Electronics Engineers.

Programming Embedded Systems

Save

Provides a comprehensive guide to programming embedded systems using C and GNU development tools. It covers essential topics such as memory management, interrupt handling, and device drivers. It is particularly useful for understanding the underlying principles of microcontroller programming and provides practical examples that can be adapted for power electronics applications. This book is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions.

Programming Embedded Systems: With C and GNU...

Kindle Edition

Make: Sensors

Save

Provides a practical introduction to embedded systems design using the Arduino platform. While the course focuses on TI microcontrollers, understanding Arduino can provide a broader perspective on embedded systems development. It covers various sensors, actuators, and communication protocols commonly used in embedded applications. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.

Make: Sensors: A Hands-On Primer for Monitoring the...

Paperback

Make: Sensors: A Hands-On Primer for Monitoring the...

Kindle Edition

Microcontroller Programming for Power Electronics Engineers

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Microcontroller programming for power electronics

Activities

Career center

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