#Embedded Hardware

[creativeera]

Understanding Embedded Computing Systems and their Role in the Modern World

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed to perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. Unlike general-purpose computers like laptops and desktop PCs, embedded systems are designed to operate on specific tasks and are not easily reprogrammable for other uses. Embedded System Hardware At the core of any embedded system is a microcontroller or microprocessor chip that acts as the processing brain. This chip contains the CPU along with RAM, ROM, I/O ports and other components integrated onto a single chip. Peripherals like sensors, displays, network ports etc. are connected to the microcontroller through its input/output ports. Embedded systems also contain supporting hardware like power supply circuits, timing crystal oscillators etc. Operating Systems for Embedded Devices While general purpose computers run full featured operating systems like Windows, Linux or MacOS, embedded systems commonly use specialized Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS). RTOS are lean and efficient kernels optimized for real-time processing with minimal overhead. Popular RTOS include FreeRTOS, QNX, VxWorks etc. Some simple devices run without an OS, accessing hardware directly via initialization code. Programming Embedded Systems Embedded Computing System are programmed using low level languages like C and C++ for maximum efficiency and control over hardware. Assembler language is also used in some applications. Programmers need expertise in Microcontroller architecture, peripherals, memory management etc. Tools include compilers, linkers, simulators and debuggers tailored for embedded development. Applications of Embedded Computing Embedded systems have revolutionized various industries by bringing intelligence and connectivity to everyday devices. Some key application areas include: Get more insights on Embedded Computing

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Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.

(LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alice-mutum-3b247b137 )

[industrydesignservices]

Teksun has been into embedded systems development for 15+ years. Our expertise in the domains of Embedded Hardware Solutions helps us to deliver end-to-end support for embedded development, starting from system requirements to testing for quality and environment. To know more about browse: https://teksun.com/ Contact us ID: marketing@teksun.com

[adafruit]

Yet another stepper breakout - TMC2130 🚀⚙️

We're back with yet another stepper driver breakout; this time, the Trinamic TMC2130

https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/analog-devices-inc-maxim-integrated/TMC2130-LA-T/5155766

Remember we started with the 'classic' A4988, then upgraded to the 'uart capable + diagnostic output' TMC2209, now we have the SPI-controllable TMC2130. You can use either stand-alone mode or SPI mode. For stand-alone, we break out the extra configuration and debug pins if you need them. In SPI controllable mode, the config pins are used instead to communicate with a microcontroller/microcomputer for precision configuration, so a library will be needed. We had to extend the board a tad for the extra pads but kept everything like the step/direction LEDs and the easy-to-use current set potentiometer.

[watchmorecinema]

Normally I just post about movies but I'm a software engineer by trade so I've got opinions on programming too.

Apparently it's a month of code or something because my dash is filled with people trying to learn Python. And that's great, because Python is a good language with a lot of support and job opportunities. I've just got some scattered thoughts that I thought I'd write down.

Python abstracts a number of useful concepts. It makes it easier to use, but it also means that if you don't understand the concepts then things might go wrong in ways you didn't expect. Memory management and pointer logic is so damn annoying, but you need to understand them. I learned these concepts by learning C++, hopefully there's an easier way these days.

Data structures and algorithms are the bread and butter of any real work (and they're pretty much all that come up in interviews) and they're language agnostic. If you don't know how to traverse a linked list, how to use recursion, what a hash map is for, etc. then you don't really know how to program. You'll pretty much never need to implement any of them from scratch, but you should know when to use them; think of them like building blocks in a Lego set.

Learning a new language is a hell of a lot easier after your first one. Going from Python to Java is mostly just syntax differences. Even "harder" languages like C++ mostly just mean more boilerplate while doing the same things. Learning a new spoken language in is hard, but learning a new programming language is generally closer to learning some new slang or a new accent. Lists in Python are called Vectors in C++, just like how french fries are called chips in London. If you know all the underlying concepts that are common to most programming languages then it's not a huge jump to a new one, at least if you're only doing all the most common stuff. (You will get tripped up by some of the minor differences though. Popping an item off of a stack in Python returns the element, but in Java it returns nothing. You have to read it with Top first. Definitely had a program fail due to that issue).

The above is not true for new paradigms. Python, C++ and Java are all iterative languages. You move to something functional like Haskell and you need a completely different way of thinking. Javascript (not in any way related to Java) has callbacks and I still don't quite have a good handle on them. Hardware languages like VHDL are all synchronous; every line of code in a program runs at the same time! That's a new way of thinking.

Python is stereotyped as a scripting language good only for glue programming or prototypes. It's excellent at those, but I've worked at a number of (successful) startups that all were Python on the backend. Python is robust enough and fast enough to be used for basically anything at this point, except maybe for embedded programming. If you do need the fastest speed possible then you can still drop in some raw C++ for the places you need it (one place I worked at had one very important piece of code in C++ because even milliseconds mattered there, but everything else was Python). The speed differences between Python and C++ are so much smaller these days that you only need them at the scale of the really big companies. It makes sense for Google to use C++ (and they use their own version of it to boot), but any company with less than 100 engineers is probably better off with Python in almost all cases. Honestly thought the best programming language is the one you like, and the one that you're good at.

Design patterns mostly don't matter. They really were only created to make up for language failures of C++; in the original design patterns book 17 of the 23 patterns were just core features of other contemporary languages like LISP. C++ was just really popular while also being kinda bad, so they were necessary. I don't think I've ever once thought about consciously using a design pattern since even before I graduated. Object oriented design is mostly in the same place. You'll use classes because it's a useful way to structure things but multiple inheritance and polymorphism and all the other terms you've learned really don't come into play too often and when they do you use the simplest possible form of them. Code should be simple and easy to understand so make it as simple as possible. As far as inheritance the most I'm willing to do is to have a class with abstract functions (i.e. classes where some functions are empty but are expected to be filled out by the child class) but even then there are usually good alternatives to this.

Related to the above: simple is best. Simple is elegant. If you solve a problem with 4000 lines of code using a bunch of esoteric data structures and language quirks, but someone else did it in 10 then I'll pick the 10. On the other hand a one liner function that requires a lot of unpacking, like a Python function with a bunch of nested lambdas, might be easier to read if you split it up a bit more. Time to read and understand the code is the most important metric, more important than runtime or memory use. You can optimize for the other two later if you have to, but simple has to prevail for the first pass otherwise it's going to be hard for other people to understand. In fact, it'll be hard for you to understand too when you come back to it 3 months later without any context.

Note that I've cut a few things for simplicity. For example: VHDL doesn't quite require every line to run at the same time, but it's still a major paradigm of the language that isn't present in most other languages.

Ok that was a lot to read. I guess I have more to say about programming than I thought. But the core ideas are: Python is pretty good, other languages don't need to be scary, learn your data structures and algorithms and above all keep your code simple and clean.

[nuacam]

First styles done 💪. Now that the prototype hardware is done, I can focus more on the software. I have created these first few styles for the NuaCam project. These are just a few starter styles that will allow me to test the gallery and style selection ux. Follow for more updates about this project.

[elmaelectronic]

Compact PCI for High-Density Systems

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[unidentifiedfuckingthing]

theres a modern still maintained fully independent browser (as in, not safari and or based on chromium or firefox) that by chance i found out that someone ~successfully* ported to the 3ds (custom os; single core and 64M (1/16 of a gb) of ram**) earlier this year. it cant do most(?) java and it cant do html5 and most of its documentation hasnt been updated since 2012 even though the mailing lists are atill active. and im in love with it

*it sucked but its impressive to do it at all

**technically both of these are lies but this is what programs are allowed to use. or up to 80 mb of ram if they ask reeeeeallly nicey. chromium wishes

[boschsds]

Expert Embedded Hardware Design Services by Bosch

Bosch offers specialized embedded hardware design services to create robust and efficient systems for various applications. Our team utilizes cutting-edge technologies to deliver solutions that meet your specific requirements and enhance product performance. With a focus on best practices and extensive industry experience, we ensure that our designs are not only innovative but also cost-effective and scalable.

[bitcoinversus]

How to Build an Embedded System (Hardware Edition)

Building an embedded system for specialized applications like air coolant pods requires a tailored approach that combines hardware assembly and strategic component integration. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of constructing a custom embedded system using Rock Pi control boards, an EMMC module for data storage, and an efficient power supply unit (PSU). By following…

[avenchsystem]

Turn key model

Unconventional Approaches in Embedded Hardware Design: What’s Really Changing?

The field of embedded hardware design has long been seen as highly specialized, with a focus on optimizing performance, reducing power consumption, and ensuring reliability. Traditionally, engineers followed well-established patterns, adhering to industry standards for board layout, component selection, and interfacing with software. However, in recent years, unconventional approaches are emerging, driven by new technology requirements and the need for more efficient, scalable, and adaptive systems. These shifts are not only reshaping the way we think about embedded systems but also pushing embedded hardware design companies to rethink their development strategies.

Rethinking Form Factors and Materials

One of the key areas where embedded hardware is evolving is in its physical form. Conventional designs have often been constrained by the standard dimensions of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and the limitations of traditional materials. However, advances in flexible and stretchable electronics are enabling entirely new possibilities for embedded hardware design projects.

These developments involve materials such as flexible substrates, which allow circuits to bend, twist, or fold without breaking. This can be crucial for applications in wearables, medical devices, and even certain aerospace technologies, where space and adaptability are critical. With these new form factors, embedded hardware becomes more versatile, accommodating designs that fit seamlessly into the human body, vehicles, or cramped industrial environments.

For embedded hardware design services, this shift means thinking beyond the rigidity of conventional components and adapting to a world where hardware needs to conform to increasingly demanding applications.

Open Hardware Platforms: A New Path Forward

Another significant trend shaping the embedded hardware design & development process is the adoption of open-source hardware platforms. While software development has seen a surge in open-source projects, hardware has been slower to embrace this trend. However, the growing interest in platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and BeagleBone is changing that landscape.

Open hardware platforms provide pre-designed, modular systems that can be customized for specific applications. This shift is lowering the barrier to entry for startups and smaller embedded hardware design companies, which may not have the resources to develop systems from scratch. By using open hardware, developers can quickly prototype ideas, reducing time to market while ensuring flexibility.

AI and Machine Learning at the Hardware Level

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are usually discussed in the context of software, but they are starting to play a role in embedded system hardware design as well. Traditionally, embedded systems relied on predefined algorithms for data processing. But with the integration of AI, hardware is becoming more adaptive, capable of adjusting itself in real-time based on environmental conditions or operational feedback.

Edge computing is a perfect example of where this trend is having a significant impact. Instead of sending all data to the cloud for processing, embedded systems can now handle complex AI tasks locally, thanks to more intelligent hardware architectures. These architectures are optimized to run AI models efficiently, without the need for heavy computational resources.

Power Efficiency Through Energy Harvesting

Embedded systems have always been designed with power efficiency in mind, particularly for applications where changing batteries frequently isn’t practical, such as remote sensing, medical implants, or IoT devices. Traditional power optimization strategies focus on minimizing energy consumption through low-power states or more efficient algorithms.

However, energy harvesting is emerging as a game-changer for embedded hardware design. By capturing energy from ambient sources like light, heat, or motion, devices can potentially operate indefinitely without external power sources. This capability drastically reduces maintenance costs and extends the operational life of embedded systems in remote or inaccessible locations.

Energy harvesting technology is still evolving, but it holds great promise. As more embedded hardware design companies integrate this technology into their designs, it could fundamentally change the way we think about powering devices in the future.

The Rise of Custom Silicon

Custom silicon, particularly application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), is gaining traction in the embedded hardware design & development world. Instead of relying on general-purpose processors or microcontrollers, more companies are designing custom chips tailored to their specific needs. This approach allows for greater optimization, both in terms of performance and power efficiency, as the chip is designed precisely for the intended use case.

This trend is particularly evident in high-performance applications such as cryptocurrency mining, AI acceleration, and telecommunications, where standard off-the-shelf components can’t deliver the required performance. Custom silicon can also improve security, as companies can integrate hardware-level protections directly into the chip.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

As embedded systems become more complex, embedded hardware design projects are increasingly benefiting from collaboration across multiple disciplines. Mechanical engineers, material scientists, software developers, and electrical engineers are working together more closely than ever before. This interdisciplinary approach allows teams to tackle problems holistically, considering all aspects of the system, from the physical constraints of the hardware to the software that drives it.

Cross-disciplinary collaboration also opens the door to more innovative solutions, as professionals from different fields bring unique perspectives and expertise to the table. This trend will continue to drive forward the capabilities of embedded hardware design, enabling more sophisticated and integrated systems.

Conclusion,

The embedded hardware design industry is undergoing a transformation as new materials, open platforms, AI integration, energy harvesting, custom silicon, and cross-disciplinary collaboration reshape the field. These unconventional approaches are pushing the boundaries of what embedded systems can achieve, offering more efficiency, adaptability, and intelligence. For companies involved in embedded hardware design services, staying ahead means embracing these changes and rethinking traditional approaches to meet the demands of future applications.

For more information on embedded product design companies in usa subscribe to our blog. For sales queries, contact us at +1 (775) 404-5757 or email sales@avench.com. We are here to assist you.

[creativeera]

Embedded Computing Marled is Anticipated to Witness High Growth Owing to Wide Adoption Across End-use Industries

Embedded computing refers to a computer system that is part of a larger mechanical or electrical system designed to perform a dedicated function. Embedded systems are designed for specific control functions within embedded products and machines and operate under the direct control of an embedded program. Some key features of embedded systems include rugged construction, low power usage, real-time operating capabilities and compact size. Embedded devices are commonly found in industrial equipment, automobiles, consumer electronics, home appliances and medical devices to control electronic systems. Their key advantage is the ability to control electronic processes in a precise, flexible and cost-effective manner.

The global embedded computing market is estimated to be valued at US$ 112.45 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 174.38 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2024 to 2031.

Wide adoption across industries such as industrial automation, transportation, healthcare, telecommunication and consumer electronics is fueling market growth. Embedded systems allow streamlining of electronic processes, reducing downtimes and operation costs for end-use industries. Key Takeaways Key players operating in the embedded computing market are Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Inc., Advantech Co., Ltd., Avalue Technology Inc., Curtiss-Wright Corporation, Dell Technologies Inc., Emerson Electric Co., Fujitsu Limited, General Electric Company, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, Honeywell International Inc., Intel Corporation, Kontron ST AG, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Rockwell Automation, Inc., and Texas Instruments Incorporated. The Embedded Computing Market Demand offers significant opportunities for system integrators and solution providers through new product development and capability expansion. Growing digitization trends across industry verticals will continue to generate strong demand for embedded systems with advanced computing and connectivity features. Leading embedded computing companies are focusing on global expansion strategies through partnerships, joint ventures and acquisitions to solidify their presence in emerging economies of Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa. These regions offer high growth potential driven by ongoing modernization of infrastructure and growing electronics manufacturing activities. Market Drivers Wide adoption across industrial automation applications is a key driver for the embedded computing market. Use of embedded systems allows streamlining of electronic processes, reducing downtimes and operation costs for industrial equipment manufacturers. Growing connectivity trends through Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) will further propel demand. Rising electronics content in automobiles is positively impacting the market. Advanced driver assistance systems, infotainment systems and vehicle networking require powerful embedded computing solutions. Strict fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions norms will accelerate integration of embedded computing hardware. Market Restrain Design complexity of developing embedded system on a chip (SoC) poses challenges, especially for integrating advanced Embedded Computing Companies capabilities with low power requirements. This increases new product development timelines and costs. Limited standardization across various embedded system platforms inhibits seamless interoperability, data exchange and application portability. This poses difficulties for globally distributed product development activities.

Segment Analysis Automotive industrial and transportation is dominating the embedded computing market due to increasing implementation of advanced driver-assistance systems, connected vehicles solutions, electric vehicles, and autonomous vehicles. According to recent surveys over 65% of all new light vehicles shipped will have features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring by 2030. All these emerging technologies are driving the growth of embedded systems in automotive applications. Security and defense is another major sub segment in the embedded computing market owing to rising implementation of thermal weapon sights, combat management systems, imaging payloads and guidance systems in warships, aircraft carriers and fighter jets. Real-time information, enhanced situational awareness and integrated mission capabilities are some key priorities for embedded systems in defense applications. Various nations are also focusing on developing autonomous weapons which will further augment demand in coming years. Global Analysis North America dominates the global embedded computing market with a share of over 35% due to substantial research funding and presence of major OEMs in the region. US and Canada are hub for embedded technology development owing to advancement in networking infrastructure, IoT penetration and adoption of Industry 4.0 concepts. Asia Pacific shows fastest growth momentum led by China, India, Japan and South Korea. Low manufacturing cost and government initiatives to digitize industries are driving Asia Pacific market. Intensifying Sino-US trade war may impact supply chain dynamics in long run. Europe captures around 25% market share led by Germany, United Kingdom and France.

Get more insights on Embedded Computing Market

About Author:

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)

[just-my-insufferable-existance]

Here is a cool blog post with hardware hacking tool suggestions. I would say it's fairly beginner friendly.