—Introduction—
Basic Knowledge of Embedded Systems
When you decide to shine, no mountain can block, no sea can hide.
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This session’s introduction will be held this Sunday at 2 PM in E Classroom 215. We have invited Senior Dong Kechao from Studio 764 to explainthe basic knowledge of embedded systems.
Part 1 Definition of Embedded Systems
An Embedded System is a computer system designed for specific tasks, typically embedded within larger products or systems to control, monitor, or execute specific tasks. These systems generally consist of hardware and software, aimed at meeting specific requirements, such as being embedded in household appliances, vehicles, medical devices, industrial automation, consumer electronics, communication devices, and various application fields.
Part 2 Application Fields of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems are widely used in various consumer electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, televisions, audio systems, household appliances, gaming consoles, and smart home devices. These systems provide multimedia functions, connectivity, and user interfaces, enhancing consumer enjoyment.
The automotive industry is one of the main application fields for embedded systems. Embedded systems are used to control engine management, vehicle stability control, airbags, entertainment systems, navigation systems, and autonomous driving technologies. They help improve driving safety, efficiency, and convenience.
The medical industry uses embedded systems to develop various medical devices, including vital sign monitoring devices, medical imaging devices, surgical robots, drug delivery systems, etc. These devices can improve medical diagnosis, treatment, and patient monitoring.
05Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things is a network of embedded systems connecting the physical world. Embedded systems play a crucial role in sensors, node devices, and cloud communication, allowing devices to communicate with each other, monitor environments, and execute automated tasks.
Part 3 Components and Characteristics of Embedded Systems
The middleware layer, also known as Hardware Abstract Layer (HAL) or Board Support Package (BSP), separates the upper software from the underlying hardware, allowing developers to work without concerning themselves with hardware specifics, based on the interfaces provided by the BSP layer. This layer generally includes initialization of related lower-level hardware, input-output operations, and configuration functions.
The system software layer consists of Real-time Operating System (RTOS), file system, Graphic User Interface (GUI), network systems, and common component modules. RTOS serves as the foundation and development platform for embedded application software.
The hardware layer includes embedded microprocessors, memory, general device interfaces, and I/O interfaces. Adding power circuits, clock circuits, and memory circuits on top of an embedded processor creates an embedded core control module. Both the operating system and application programs can be stored in ROM.
2. Characteristics of Embedded Systems
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Systemic small kernel
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Strong specificity
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Simplified system
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High real-time OS
Part 4 Development Process of Embedded Systems
1. Main Steps in Embedded Development
Clearly define the functional and performance requirements of the embedded system.
Design the hardware and software structure of the embedded system, determining the choice of processor, memory, peripherals, etc.
Based on system design, perform system-level programming, device driver development, real-time system programming, etc.
Debug the embedded system using tools like simulators and debuggers to verify its correctness and performance.
Burn the program into the embedded system for practical application and perform regular system maintenance.
2. Embedded Programming Languages
Embedded programming can use various programming languages, with the choice depending on application requirements and hardware platforms. Common embedded programming languages include:
One of the most widely used languages in embedded programming, offering efficient system-level programming capabilities.
Also used in some embedded systems, especially for object-oriented designs.
Using assembly language for some resource-constrained embedded systems allows better control over program execution.
3. Common Development Tools for Embedded Systems
Due to the combination of software and hardware, the development tools commonly used in embedded programming differ from pure software programming, including:
Used to generate executable files suitable for the target embedded system.
Supports hardware debugging and software simulation, helping developers locate and fix issues.
Used to simulate the operating environment of embedded systems on the development host, facilitating debugging.
Used to burn the compiled program into the target embedded system.
Conclusion
With dreams comes motivation, with goals comes direction. As long as you hold your dreams and work steadily, the future will surely be brilliant.
