Interested in developing embedded systems? Since they don’t tolerate inefficiency, these systems require a disciplined approach to programming. This easy-to-read guide helps you cultivate a host of good development practices, based on classic software design patterns and new patterns unique to embedded programming. Learn how to build system architecture for processors, not operating systems, and discover specific techniques for dealing with hardware difficulties and manufacturing requirements.

Written by an expert who’s created embedded systems ranging from urban surveillance and DNA scanners to children’s toys, this book is ideal for intermediate and experienced programmers, no matter what platform you use.

• Optimize your system to reduce cost and increase performance
• Develop an architecture that makes your software robust in resource-constrained environments
• Explore sensors, motors, and other I/O devices
• Do more with less: reduce RAM consumption, code space, processor cycles, and power consumption
• Learn how to update embedded code directly in the processor
• Discover how to implement complex mathematics on small processors
• Understand what interviewers look for when you apply for an embedded systems job

"Making Embedded Systems is the book for a C programmer who wants to enter the fun (and lucrative) world of embedded systems. It’s very well written—entertaining, even—and filled with clear illustrations."
—Jack Ganssle, author and embedded system expert.

About the Author
Elecia White has worked on DNA scanners, inertial measurement units for airplanes and race cars, toys for preschoolers, a gunshot location system for catching criminals, and assorted other medical and consumer devices. She is the founder of Logical Elegance, an embedded systems consulting company based in San Jose. Elecia has developed strong skills in signal processing, hardware integration, complex system design, and performance. Having been through FAA and FDA certification processes, she understands the importance of producing quality designsand how they lead to quality implementations.

Elecia has spent several years in management roles but enjoys hands-on engineering and the thrill of delivering excellent products. While continuing to provide leadership and mentoring, she prefers to focus on the technical aspects of a project. A graduate of Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, CA, Elecia enjoys sharing her passion for science, engineering and interesting gizmos, particularly how these things can make the world a better place.

Chapter 1 Introduction

• Compilers, Languages, and Object-Oriented Programming
• Embedded System Development
• Further Reading

Chapter 2 Creating a System Architecture

• Creating System Diagrams
• From Diagram to Architecture
• A Sandbox to Play In
• Further Reading

Chapter 3 Getting Your Hands on the Hardware

• Hardware/Software Integration
• Reading a Datasheet
• Your Processor Is a Language
• Reading a Schematic
• Having a Debugging Toolbox (and a Fire Extinguisher)
• Testing the Hardware (and Software)
• Dealing with Errors
• Further Reading

Chapter 4 Outputs, Inputs, and Timers

• Toggling an Output
• Separating the Hardware from the Action
• The Input in I/O
• Momentary Button Press
• Runtime Uncertainty
• Using a Timer
• Using Pulse-Width Modulation
• Shipping the Product
• Further Reading

Chapter 5 Managing the Flow of Activity

• Scheduling and Operating System Basics
• State Machines
• Interrupts
• How Not to Use Interrupts
• Watchdog
• Further Reading

Chapter 6 Communicating with Peripherals

• The Wide Reach of Peripherals
• So Many Ways of Communicating
• Putting Peripherals and Communication Together
• Further Reading

Chapter 7 Updating Code

• Onboard Bootloader
• Build Your Own Updater
• Brick Loader
• Security
• Linker Scripts
• Summary

Chapter 8 Doing More with Less

• Code Space
• RAM
• Speed
• Summary
• Further Reading

Chapter 9 Math

• Identifying Fast and Slow Operations
• Use an Existing Algorithm
• Designing and Modifying Algorithms
• Fake Floating-Point Numbers
• Further Reading

Chapter 10 Reducing Power Consumption

• Understanding Power Consumption
• Turn Off the Light When You Leave the Room
• Putting the Processor to Sleep
• Further Reading

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