How to Start with Embedded Systems

 So, How do to get started with embedded Systems when you know little to none about it?

Embedded Systems are Combination of Microcontroller and various peripherals, sensors.

So, First Let me give you a Road Map for learning for Beginners,

1. C first followed by Embedded C with time.

2. Basic Idea on Microcontrollers and Microprocessors, Understanding on what are sensors and what         are peripherals.

3. Learn Architecture of Simple Beginner Microcontroller like 8051.

4. Start with interfacing 8051 and led. followed by simple sensors inputs.

5. Introduce peripherals like LCD1602 etc and use ready made code available.

6. Start making your own development Board using the 8051 instead of buying one.

7. Learn theory on timers, interrupts and then start to implement them on 8051 practically.

8.  While doing all this learn communication protocols like SPI, USART etc.

9. There are many Github repos with useful knowledge and ideas for code skills improvement.

     Also Google is your best friend.

10. Try to implement with your own code skills. start writing your own codes. stop using ready-made           codes.

11. Once you have understanding on microcontrollers with 8051, Move on to powerful microcontrollers       like Arm Cortex M3 Microcontrollers.

12. Try to do everything on Arm Cortex M3 which you have done on 8051.

13. Learn to communicate between 8051 and Arm Cortex using protocols.

By now you will be getting full clarity on what to do next.

About C and Architecture:

So we need to learn about Microcontroller Architecture, and about sensors and peripherals to interface with it. And knowing Embedded C is must. Because whether we use Assembly Language or not, Embedded C is a must.

So first knowing Simple C language is mandatory. Because Embedded C and C are similar with just few extra syntax for interfacing with microcontroller pins. 

As a Beginner we start with Microcontrollers like 8051. These are the most easiest Microcontrollers of all.

Once knowing Architecture you will be knowing about what features the Microcontroller can implement.

About Peripherals and Sensors:

There are many kinds of sensors out there. example - Temperature Sensors like DHT11, Ultrasonic Sensor, Gas Sensor, Humidity Sensor, IR Sensor, PID Sensor etc.

And Peripherals like LCD(1602) 16*2 Character, 7 Segment Display Blocks, LCD TFT DISPLAYS etc.

 

About Development Boards:

I prefer you to make development board of your own for the following reasons:

1. You will understand electronics better.

2. You will know how to solder.

3. You will know how to design Embedded Systems.

4. Better knowledge on sensors and peripherals 

All these benefits can be learnt the fastest way this way. 

Well still you can go for developments boards to buy which will make your learning process much less knowledgeable.

Start making your own projects using your superb microcontrollers. From Home Automation projects to your own personal devices for your own needs.

Embedded Systems Developers are Awesome.