May 1, 2024
Updated May 11, 2025
18 minute read
Embedded C is a specialized version of the C programming language, tailored for programming microcontrollers and microprocessors within embedded systems. These are not your everyday desktop computers; rather, they are dedicated systems designed to perform specific tasks, often with real-time constraints. Think of the tiny computers controlling your car's anti-lock brakes, the smart thermostat in your home, or the intricate electronics within a medical device. Embedded C provides a way to write the firmware—the software permanently programmed into the hardware—that brings these devices to life.
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Find a path to becoming a Embedded C. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/wm3y80/embedded
Reading list
We've selected 31 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 C.
A crucial book for professional embedded developers, this guide applies the principles of Test-Driven Development (TDD) to embedded C programming. It provides practical techniques to improve code quality, reduce defects, and create more maintainable systems. is highly recommended for those seeking to adopt modern software development practices in an embedded context.
Takes a practical approach to bare-metal programming on ARM microcontrollers using C. It emphasizes understanding datasheets and register manipulation, crucial skills for developing optimized firmware without relying heavily on abstraction layers. It's a good fit for those wanting a deep understanding of the hardware-software interface.
Offers a hands-on approach to learning about Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) with microcontrollers. It introduces RTOS concepts and guides the reader through practical examples, which is essential for developing embedded systems with strict timing requirements.
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded system design, covering hardware, software, and the interaction between the two. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced engineers.
Foundational text for understanding embedded systems programming with C. It covers essential concepts like hardware interaction, real-time operating systems, and debugging techniques. It provides practical examples and is often recommended for those starting in embedded development.
This textbook provides a hands-on introduction to embedded systems using ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers and C programming. It covers fundamental topics like the CPU, interrupts, peripherals, and multitasking. It's well-suited for students and those new to ARM-based embedded development, often used in academic settings.
Provides a practical guide to designing higher-quality embedded software. It covers software architecture, development processes, and coding techniques relevant to embedded systems. It assumes basic C and microcontroller knowledge and helps bridge the gap to more professional development practices.
Provides a contemporary approach to embedded system design. It covers all aspects of embedded system design, from hardware and software to system integration and testing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of real-time systems design and analysis. It covers all aspects of real-time systems, from requirements analysis to system testing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded systems design using the 8051 microcontroller. It covers all aspects of embedded systems design, from hardware and software to system integration and testing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded Linux. It covers all aspects of embedded Linux, from hardware and software to system integration and testing.
Provides a set of essential rules and best practices for writing C code in embedded systems. It covers crucial topics like naming conventions, data types, and control structures to enhance code quality, readability, and portability. It's a valuable reference for developers at all levels.
Focuses on bare-metal C programming, teaching you to work directly with the hardware without an operating system. This approach is fundamental to understanding how embedded systems function at a low level and is highly relevant for performance-critical applications.
Understanding real-time operating systems (RTOS) is crucial in many embedded applications. provides a solid foundation in real-time concepts, which is highly relevant to developing embedded systems that require deterministic behavior. It valuable resource for those moving beyond basic bare-metal programming.
For those specifically interested in Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), this book provides a detailed look at the MicroC/OS-II kernel. Understanding an RTOS is essential for developing complex embedded systems with strict timing requirements. valuable reference for RTOS implementation.
Delves into the architectural aspects of embedded systems, providing a broader perspective beyond just programming in C. It covers topics like system design, hardware considerations, and software architecture patterns. It's beneficial for those looking to understand the larger context of embedded system development.
Focuses on the PIC microcontroller family, covering both assembly and C programming. It's a widely used textbook for learning embedded systems with PIC microcontrollers and provides a solid understanding of a specific architecture.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of the C language, this book explores more advanced and subtle aspects. It's not specifically embedded-focused but can significantly enhance a programmer's C skills, which is highly valuable for writing efficient and correct embedded code.
Often referred to as 'K&R', this classic and fundamental book on the C programming language itself. While not exclusively about embedded systems, a strong understanding of standard C prerequisite for embedded C programming. provides a deep and authoritative reference for the language.
Offers a practical approach to programming AVR microcontrollers in C, using a specific development board and compiler. It's a good resource for hands-on learning with a popular microcontroller family and is suitable for beginners getting started with embedded C projects.
Covers the C language, including the latest standards. While not exclusively for embedded systems, having a strong grasp of modern C features can lead to cleaner and more efficient embedded code. It's suitable for both beginners and experienced programmers looking to update their C knowledge.
Provides a good introduction to the fundamental concepts of embedded software development, covering topics like real-time operation and scheduling. While it may not be the most recent, it is considered a classic for its clear explanation of core embedded software principles.
Provides a broad overview of embedded computing system design, covering hardware and software aspects. While not solely focused on Embedded C, it offers essential context on how software interacts with hardware in embedded systems. It's a valuable resource for understanding the bigger picture.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/wm3y80/embedded
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