Embedded Systems

Recommended Prerequisites

Computer programming.

Teaching Methods

1. Theoretical classes to allow for the development of a solid scientific and technical background in telematic technologies that are the basis of modern Instrumentation systems;
2. Practical classes and analysis of paradigmatic examples in order to learn best practices and develop skills on decision making, critical analysis and construction of solutions.

Learning Outcomes

1. Understanding the challenges and opportunities in Instrumentation coming from ubiquitous and pervasive computing
2. Training on embedded systems hardware and software
3. Training on wired and wireless (RF) local network technologies suited to the integration of distributed data acquisition and automatic control systems
4. Development of the skills on embedded systems planning, through the analysis of study cases or small projects, thereby stimulating the creativity in the conception and the critical comparative analysis of solutions.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Embedded computing: motivation, opportunities and challenges
2. Microsystems and micro controllers' technology
2.1. Microsystem's components: CPU and buses' structures; I/O devices; Memory; Counters and temporisers
2.2. Microsystems' architectures
2.3. Microprogram's structures and assembly language
2.4. Management of processes and operating systems
3. Platform for embedded systems
3.1. Microprocessors and microcontrollers: the micro controller as a component
3.2. External interaction: field interfaces and computer connectivity
3.3. Development tools
4. Local networks for embedded systems
4.1. Distributed embedded systems
4.2. Wired networks' architectures
4.3. Wireless networks' architectures
5. Embedded systems project
5.1. Requisite analysis and specification
5.2. Functional breakdown and system architecture
5.2. Quality and maintenance guided project.

Head Lecturer(s)

João Manuel Rendeiro Cardoso

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Project: 40.0%
Exam: 60.0%

Bibliography

Wayne Wolfe, Computers as Components Principles of Embedded Computing Systems Design, San Francisco: Morgan Kaufmann Publishers (The Morgan Kaufmann Series in Computer Architecture and Design, paperback), 2005.
Jose A. Gutierrez, Edgar H. Callaway, and Raymond Barrett, Low-rate Wireless Personal Area Networks: Enabling Wireless Sensor Networks With IEEE 802.15.4, IEEE Press, 2003.