Guide to Learning FreeRTOS: Tips and Resources

FreeRTOS is a type of RTOS, commonly referred to as a real-time operating system, which can achieve multi-task coordination, fast response times, and high reliability. Compared to Linux, FreeRTOS has lower hardware performance requirements and can run on many microcontrollers. FreeRTOS is one of the more commonly used real-time operating systems, and it is often required for some campus recruitment positions.

First of all, I took this course during my undergraduate studies. From a practical application perspective, when working on complex projects, it is definitely feasible to use FreeRTOS as it facilitates functionality development. From a job-seeking perspective, if you have the time, I recommend learning it. Of course, learning other RTOS like ucOS or RTthread is also acceptable.

During the autumn recruitment, different companies have different business focuses, and the skill requirements for embedded positions vary. If you know FreeRTOS, there will generally be more job opportunities available! Many companies that focus on chips and small embedded product companies do not require Linux, and using RTOS can completely meet their needs.

Additionally, real-time operating systems like FreeRTOS have multi-task management mechanisms that can be compared to the multi-threading and processes of Linux, with each task running independently. At the same time, the RTOS mechanism also provides a complete task scheduling tool, including semaphores, locking mechanisms, etc. These concepts are relatively easier to learn in RTOS, and they can be included in your resume for autumn recruitment. Students with time should definitely learn!

I recommend based on the PDF – FreeRTOS Real-Time Kernel Practical Guide that you first understand the multi-tasking mechanism. At any given moment, even when using RTOS, only one task is running; it’s just that the time unit is small enough that tasks run in turns, giving the effect of multi-task parallelism. FreeRTOS has already taken care of this functionality, and it also comes with complete inter-task communication and scheduling tools.

Understanding concepts is more important when learning FreeRTOS; the code implementation is mostly copy-paste operations. Therefore, I also suggest that everyone read books on FreeRTOS instead of video tutorials. Books like the FreeRTOS development tutorial PDF by ZhenDian YuanZi or Wei Dongshan are sufficient.

PS: Many students are pooling together for Wei Dongshan’s 0.1 yuan FreeRTOS tutorial. After successfully pooling, are you really learning?

My personal suggestion is that if you have enough time, it’s best to learn both FreeRTOS and Linux drivers. Linux drivers are harder and require more time, while FreeRTOS is quicker to grasp and has fewer knowledge points. In terms of job hunting, I feel that positions requiring Linux drivers may offer higher pay and more opportunities, as Linux drivers are more hardcore! Everyone should consider their remaining self-study time comprehensively.