Description
Objectives
To develop knowledge in the area of architectures, operating systems and embedded system technologies capable of interacting with the physical world. Thus, it is intended to familiarize students with an integrated perspective of microprocessor-based systems architectures, their interfaces and operating systems, with special emphasis on real-time systems.
Syllabus
- Basics of Embedded Computing: Embedded & Real-time Systems characterization; Fallacies and Pitfalls, Challenges. - Typical CPUs ISA architectures. - System’s Architecture: Memory, Bus, I/O; Power management. - Development Platforms & tools, Test. - Multiprogramming and OS: Multitasking; Operating Systems structures; Scheduling; Synchronization and IPC; Mechanisms, typical primitives, examples. - FreeRTOS: Task management; Synch. & IPC; Interrupts and Device Handlers; Examples of primitives; Use cases examples; - Real-time issues: Scheduling Priority inversion - Design methodologies: Abstraction levels, specs, design approaches, integration
Prerequisites
The theoretical component requires prior knowledge of communication networks and embedded system electronics.
Cross Competence Component
The UC encompasses the development of transversal competences on Critical and Innovative Thinking, Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Skills (oral, organizational and teamwork, self-discipline, perseverance, self-motivation skills) and Information and Media Literacy (ability to locate and access information, as well as to analyze and evaluate media content) within the lab assignments and project. The assessment percentage associated with these competences should be around 20%.
Laboratorial Component
The laboratory component consists of a project capable of being carried out in 6 weeks. Each week, the students will build a part of the project. The evaluation of the laboratory will be based on a written report and the respective oral discussion; the project grade also takes into account the quality of the demonstration of the system's functionality, besides the technical quality and the report.
Programming And Computing Component
The laboratory component requires programming knowledge (C, Python) and some practice in the programming of microprocessor-based systems, namely with embedded system electronics skills.
Ethical Principles
All members of a group are responsible for the group’s work In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.