Learning Plan for Embedded Systems Course
Your journey will begin by understanding what Embedded Systems are. Draw from your electronics engineering knowledge and think about these systems as combinations of hardware and software specifically designed to perform a dedicated function. Note that these systems are vital in modern technology and range from portable devices to large stationary installations.
To keep things interesting and engage your curiosity, look around and identify everyday devices that operate based on embedded systems. This could be anything ranging from washing machines, mobile phones, traffic lights to aerospace applications like flight control systems. Studying their functioning and how they incorporate embedded systems will make this learning process more relatable and practical.
Draw from your knowledge of logic circuits, components and the likes, and start building a mental map of these physical concepts into abstract code constructs in C. This will set a good platform for learning C - a language that is used widely in embedded systems.
Now delve deep into C programming. Understand basic concepts like data types, variables, loops, and functions. Remember that your background in electronics engineering may assist you here. Think of a function as a black box, or a complex circuit, using inputs to generate an output.
From C, transition into the world of Linux. Understand the open and flexible nature of Linux that makes it a good choice for embedded systems. Using your existing knowledge, relate to the need for operating systems and why Linux sits well in the embedded ecosystem.
You will combine your knowledge of C programming language and Linux OS to create a small embedded systems project. For instance, you could develop a temperature control system using a Raspberry Pi unit. Here is where you'll apply your prior knowledge in electronics engineering for creating the hardware setup.
Finally, using your cumulative knowledge, develop a capstone project that demonstrates your proficiency in implementing embedded systems. An example project is to conceptualize, design and implement an intelligent traffic control system. This practical application will integrate the principles of electronics engineering and your newfound skills.
Now that we have a plan for the course, let's get started with Intro to embedded systems, Basics of C, Basics of Linux OS, Basic Embedded concepts.