Course Description

Welcome to our cutting-edge course on Embedded Systems and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)! This comprehensive, lab-based computer science course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving field of embedded systems engineering. As the demand for smarter, more efficient electronic technology grows, so does the need for skilled professionals who can develop and manage these complex systems.

In this hands-on course, you'll dive deep into the world of embedded systems and learn how to create your very own real-time operating system. You'll apply your knowledge by building a personal fitness device with Bluetooth connectivity, giving you practical experience that directly translates to real-world applications. This course is perfect for students and professional engineers looking to enhance their skills in embedded systems, product development, computer architecture, operating systems, and Bluetooth networks.

What Students Will Learn

• Fundamentals of embedded systems
• How to build a real-time operating system from the ground up
• Design, development, and debugging of C code
• Modular design principles through creating a personal fitness device
• Bluetooth communication techniques
• Thread management and synchronization
• Real-time scheduling algorithms
• Interrupt handling and priority scheduling
• File system implementation using flash ROM
• Personal area network creation with Bluetooth

Pre-requisites

• Proficiency in C programming (loops, structures, arrays, functions, and pointers)
• Interest in embedded systems
• Basic understanding of computer architecture (helpful but not required)

Course Coverage

• Introduction to I/O using Board Support Package (BSP) and debugging techniques
• Thread management for personal fitness devices
• Thread synchronization and scheduling
• Real-time operating system development for hand-held video games
• File system implementation using microcontroller flash ROM
• Bluetooth personal area network creation and smartphone interaction

Who This Course Is For

• Computer science students looking to specialize in embedded systems
• Professional engineers aiming to upgrade their skills in RTOS and embedded systems
• Product developers interested in creating smart, connected devices
• Anyone passionate about the intersection of hardware and software in modern technology

Real-World Applications

• Developing smart home devices and Internet of Things (IoT) products
• Creating wearable technology and fitness trackers
• Designing automotive systems and industrial control equipment
• Implementing medical devices and healthcare monitoring systems
• Building communication systems and consumer electronics
• Developing military and aerospace applications
• Creating efficient and responsive embedded systems for various industries

Syllabus

• Lab 1: Introduction to I/O using the BSP and debugging
• Lab 2: Thread management for a personal fitness device
• Lab 3: Thread synchronization and scheduling for a personal fitness device
• Lab 4: Real-time operating system for a hand-held video game
• Lab 5: File system using the flash ROM of the microcontroller
• Lab 6: Bluetooth personal area network

Each lab builds upon the previous one, culminating in a fully functional personal fitness device with Bluetooth connectivity. This project-based approach ensures that you'll gain practical, hands-on experience that directly translates to real-world embedded systems development.