Microcomputer Fundamentals for Embedded Systems Education

Traditional computer architecture/computer engineering curricula emphasize the hardware and software fundamentals suitable to general purpose computing. However, there is a growing realization that special purpose embedded systems computing requires a different educational emphasis than general purpose computing. The foundation cornerstone in a curriculum emphasizing embedded systems is the microcomputers class. Regardless of the microprocessor platform chosen, certain topics must be emphasized when building embedded systems. Because microprocessors in embedded systems are typically used for control applications, one emphasis must be on communications protocols with other devices such as RS-232, SPI, IIC, or CAN. Similarly, for interactions with the non-digital world, another emphasis must be on analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion. Because so many control applications are time-critical, another emphasis must be on timing and interrupts. The role of this class and laboratory is presented in the context of its impact on Embedded Systems education throughout the Computer Engineering curriculum at The University Of Alabama. Specific examples bridging the microcomputers class to the remainder of the curriculum are provided. Discussion includes a description of the assessments used to gauge this impact