#mplab

[jayakody2000lk]

Universal HD44780 LCD interface

YALI (Yet Another LCD Interface) is an open-source project to provide a universal interface to drive the popular Hitachi HD44780 LCD controller. This module supports 3.3V and 5V MCUs and hardware development platforms, including Arduino, STM32, PIC, and ESP8266.

The hardware module of this project consists of a 74HCT08 CMOS AND gate and a 74HC595 8-bit serial-in, parallel-out shift register. This module uses the MP1540 step-up converter to power the LCD unit connected to the system. The module has the jumper to select 3.3V or 5V DC power input. 

The YALI library is developed using C and is designed to be easily integrated with any C/C++ embedded toolchain. At the initial design stages, this library was successfully tested with all Arduino development boards, NodeMCU, STM32 Blue Pill, etc. The target system must have three digital output lines with 5V or 3.3V logic levels to interface with the YALI module. As mentioned earlier, this module works successfully with 5V or 3.3V power sources and logic levels.

The YALI library provides a unified API to control the HD44780 LCD controller. It has functions to handle cursor control, custom character loading, LCD backlight control, etc.

The PCBWay sponsored this project. PCBWay offers high-quality PCB manufacturing and assembling services. Also, they offer CNC and 3D printing services. The PCB of the YALI module is available to order from PCBWay. Check out the PCBWay website for its manufacturing capabilities and pricing.

The dimensions of the YALI hardware module are 69mm × 21mm. This module is designed using SMD components and can be connected directly to the LCD unit.

This project is an open-source hardware project. All its design files, BOM, schematics, and firmware source codes are available at Github.com. 

The PCB design, schematic, and other design files of this project are covered with a Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International license. The library source code is released under the terms of the MIT license.

[futureelectronic1066]

PIC16F18076 Device Family of MCUs Overview - Microchip

https://www.futureelectronics.com/m/microchip. The Microchip PIC16F18076 device family of MCUs contains a robust suite of digital and analog Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that enable cost-sensitive sensors and real-time control applications.

[futureelectronic1113]

Introduction to Bare Metal Programming With Microchip Episode 7: Lowest Power Blinky

https://www.futureelectronics.com/resources/featured-products/microchip-bare-metal-programming-attiny1627. In this 7th bare metal episode, we will make a low power Blinky using the Real Time Counter (RTC) and Periodic Interval Timer (PIT) and compare the current consumption to the Blinky projects in the previous videos. https://youtu.be/FVqj-6qSRn0

[futureelectronic1112]

Introduction to Bare Metal Programming with Microchip Episode 6: Low Power Measurements

https://www.futureelectronics.com/resources/featured-products/microchip-bare-metal-programming-attiny1627. In this 6th episode of the bare metal programming series for the AVR® Tiny2, we will cover: - Modifying the Curiosity Nano for Low Power Measurements - Measure current consumption - Compare to expected current consumption from datasheet. https://youtu.be/XyWBoo3f37g

[futureelectronic1108]

Introduction to Bare Metal Programming with Microchip Episode 2: Creating a New Project

https://www.futureelectronics.com/resources/featured-products/microchip-bare-metal-programming-attiny1627. In the 2nd episode of the bare metal programming series for the AVR Tiny2, we will cover: - Creating a new project in MPLAB X IDE - Creating a new main.c file - Finding and using the device header file - Peripheral module structures. https://youtu.be/DhKcM6UU8CE

[futureelectronic1107]

Introduction to Bare Metal Programming with Microchip Episode 1: How to Get Started

https://www.futureelectronics.com/resources/featured-products/microchip-bare-metal-programming-attiny1627. This is the first episode in a new series on bare metal programming with the AVR®Tiny2 (ATtiny1627 family of MCUs). This first video covers what bare metal programing is, and how to… - Add Device Family Packs to MPLAB® X IDE - https://youtu.be/2bHqKQd3vOE

[quartz-components]

The PicKit 2 is a USB PIC programmer tool that can utilize Windows Platform with MPLAB Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to program or debug PIC Microcontrollers that support In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP). Meaning the PIC can be programmed with only 2-wires (2-pins) PGD and PGC excluding the power pins. It's great for beginners who wish to program or flash their PIC Microcontrollers which supports ICSP or for any firmware update. ICSP ensures that the microcontroller can be programmed without removing it from the circuit. This makes the debugging of the circuit easier and more convenient.

[dianalelis]

artwork 4om series #meta.laiks @ RETROSPEKTROPIA – celebration/exhibition of New Media Art in Liepaja over the past 15 years. ...

RETROSPECTROPIA” gives an insight into ghosts, myths, assumptions, and surprising turns of human imagination and emotions created by new communicative spaces created by various technologies, gathering works of 15 artists coming from the New Media community created by the Art Research Lab (MPLab).

A strong, sustained interest in media art in the Baltic context is a unique feature of Latvian art. 15 years have passed since 2007, when the 1st year students started their studies in New Media Art in Liepaja University. The range of research subjects of New Media Art students ranges from video, photo and sound art to experiments in augmented and virtual reality, challenging both the audiences and technologies. Photo: KarlisVolkovskis

[servotechinc78]

Embedded Software Development Tools for Advanced Systems Design

Embedded systems have become an integral part of modern technology, powering everything from smart appliances and automobiles to medical devices and industrial equipment. To create these advanced systems, developers rely on a suite of embedded software development tools designed to streamline the process, enhance efficiency, and ensure reliability. This article explores the key tools used in embedded software development and how they contribute to advanced systems design.

What Are Embedded Software Development Tools?

Embedded software development tools are specialized resources that help developers design, write, test, and debug software for embedded systems. Unlike standard software development, embedded development must consider hardware constraints, real-time requirements, and system reliability. These tools enable developers to create optimized code that interacts seamlessly with the underlying hardware.

Key Characteristics of Embedded Software Development Tools

Hardware-Specific: Tailored for specific microcontrollers, processors, or hardware platforms.

Real-Time Capabilities: Support for real-time processing to meet stringent timing requirements.

Optimization: Focus on memory and performance efficiency due to limited resources in embedded systems.

Types of Embedded Software Development Tools

1. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)

Description: IDEs provide a comprehensive environment for code development, debugging, and project management. They integrate various tools like editors, compilers, and debuggers into a single interface.

Popular IDEs:

Keil MDK

MPLAB X IDE

STM32CubeIDE

Benefits:

Simplifies the development process by consolidating tools.

Provides real-time error detection and debugging.

Supports project organization and version control.

2. Compilers and Assemblers

Description: These tools convert high-level programming languages (like C or C++) into machine code that microcontrollers can execute. Assemblers handle assembly language conversion.

Popular Compilers:

GCC (GNU Compiler Collection)

IAR Embedded Workbench

Arm Compiler for Embedded

Benefits:

Translates code into efficient, executable formats.

Offers optimization features for performance and memory use.

3. Debuggers

Description: Debuggers allow developers to identify and fix issues in their code by monitoring and controlling program execution in real-time.

Types of Debugging Tools:

On-chip Debuggers: Interface directly with the microcontroller.

Software Debuggers: Simulate code execution on a virtual platform.

Popular Debugging Tools:

JTAG and SWD interfaces

OpenOCD

Benefits:

Enables step-by-step execution and error tracing.

Provides insights into variable states, memory usage, and processor status.

4. Emulators and Simulators

Description: Emulators replicate the functionality of the target hardware, while simulators model the behavior of the software without requiring physical hardware.

Popular Tools:

QEMU (Quick Emulator)

Proteus Design Suite

Benefits:

Allows early-stage testing without hardware.

Reduces dependency on physical prototypes.

5. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) Tools

Description: RTOS tools facilitate real-time task scheduling and resource management for embedded systems requiring precise timing.

Popular RTOS Tools:

FreeRTOS

VxWorks

Zephyr

Benefits:

Enables multitasking and time-critical operations.

Enhances system stability and responsiveness.

6. Logic Analyzers and Oscilloscopes

Description: These hardware tools analyze and visualize signal data from embedded systems, helping developers debug hardware-software interactions.

Benefits:

Provides detailed insights into signal timing and integrity.

Aids in resolving hardware-related issues.

How Embedded Software Development Tools Aid Advanced Systems Design

Ensuring System Reliability

Reliability is paramount in advanced systems, especially in industries like healthcare and automotive. Debuggers, emulators, and logic analyzers help identify and rectify errors early in development, reducing the risk of system failures.

Enhancing Performance Optimization

Performance optimization tools, such as compilers with advanced optimization settings, ensure efficient memory usage and faster execution. These optimizations are critical for resource-constrained embedded systems.

Simplifying Hardware-Software Integration

Tools like simulators and IDEs bridge the gap between hardware and software, enabling seamless integration. This is particularly useful for complex systems requiring tight coordination between components.

Accelerating Development Cycles

The integration of multiple functionalities within IDEs, along with tools like RTOS, streamlines the development process. This reduces time-to-market, which is crucial in competitive industries.

Choosing the Right Tools for Your Project

Selecting the appropriate embedded software development tools depends on several factors:

Target Hardware: Ensure the tools are compatible with your microcontroller or processor.

Project Complexity: Choose tools that support advanced features like multitasking, real-time debugging, and performance profiling.

Team Expertise: Select tools that align with your team's skill set and experience.

Budget Constraints: Some tools are open-source and free, while others require licensing fees.

Trends in Embedded Software Development Tools

Increasing Use of AI and Machine Learning

AI-driven tools are being used to enhance code analysis, bug detection, and optimization, reducing manual effort and errors.

Cloud-Based Development Platforms

Cloud-based IDEs and collaboration tools allow teams to work remotely and access powerful computing resources for simulations and testing.

Focus on Security

With the rise of IoT and connected devices, security-focused tools are becoming essential for detecting vulnerabilities and ensuring secure firmware development.

Support for Heterogeneous Systems

Modern tools are increasingly designed to handle heterogeneous systems, where multiple processors and cores work together to achieve specific tasks.

Conclusion

Embedded software development tools are critical for designing advanced systems that are reliable, efficient, and high-performing. From IDEs and compilers to debuggers and logic analyzers, each tool plays a specific role in simplifying the development process and ensuring system integrity. As technology evolves, developers must stay updated with the latest tools and trends to create innovative and secure embedded systems for a wide range of applications.

[electronicsbuzz]

https://electronicsbuzz.in/mplab-extensions-bring-microchip-tools-to-vs-code

[tia003]

What are essential tools for embedded system development?

Embedded system development relies on a variety of tools to design, develop, test, and debug hardware and software components. These tools play a critical role in ensuring efficient workflows and reliable outcomes in creating embedded solutions.

1. Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Tools like Keil uVision, Eclipse, and MPLAB X IDE provide a comprehensive platform for coding, compiling, and debugging embedded programs. They streamline development by integrating essential features into one environment.

2. Compilers and Assemblers: Compilers such as GCC or proprietary ones like IAR Embedded Workbench translate high-level code into machine code that microcontrollers can execute. Assemblers handle low-level assembly language translation.

3. Debuggers: Debugging tools like JTAG, ST-Link, and ICE (In-Circuit Emulators) help developers identify and resolve issues in real-time by interacting with the hardware directly.

4. Simulators: Simulators mimic the behavior of hardware, allowing developers to test software without requiring the actual hardware. Tools like Proteus and QEMU are commonly used.

5. Logic Analyzers and Oscilloscopes: These tools are vital for analyzing digital and analog signals. They help developers verify communication protocols, timing, and electrical signals.

6. Version Control Systems: Tools like Git are crucial for managing code versions, collaboration, and tracking changes during development.

7. Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS): Software like FreeRTOS or Zephyr provides frameworks to manage task scheduling, memory, and resource allocation in real-time applications.

8. Protocol Analyzers: Tools like Wireshark are used to debug and analyze communication protocols like SPI, I2C, UART, and BLE.

By mastering these tools, developers can efficiently design and optimize embedded systems. To gain hands-on experience and expertise, enrolling in an embedded system certification course is a valuable step toward building a career in this domain.

[futureelectronic1066]

PIC16F18076 Device Family of MCUs Overview - Microchip

https://www.futureelectronics.com/m/microchip. The Microchip PIC16F18076 device family of MCUs contains a robust suite of digital and analog Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that enable cost-sensitive sensors and real-time control applications.

[jayakody2000lk]

Alarm unit for limit switches or flow switches

Have you ever faced the frustration of dealing with an overflowing tank or a pump running dry? These unexpected events can result in costly damage and inconvenience. A reliable floater switch alarm system can provide early warnings, allowing you to take prompt action and prevent further issues. This project guides you through building a do-it-yourself floater switch alarm system using a PIC12F508 microcontroller.

The circuit for this project is relatively simple and requires very few components. The system is designed to operate with a 12V DC power supply and utilizes a 230V AC buzzer unit for audible alerts.

The circuit includes a mute function that allows you to temporarily silence the alarm for a specified duration. Additionally, a built-in timeout mechanism ensures continuous alarm activation if the floater switch remains closed for an extended period, indicating a potential emergency. This project is suitable for various applications, including home or industrial monitoring, and environmental monitoring.

The firmware for the microcontroller will control the operation of the alarm system. It should perform the following tasks:

Monitor the floater switch: Continuously read the input pin from the floater switch.

Activate the alarm: If the floater switch detects a change in water level (e.g., rising water), activate the buzzer or alarm.

Mute function: Allow the user to temporarily mute the alarm by pressing a button.

Timeouts: If the alarm remains active for an extended period, it may indicate a serious issue.

The firmware for this project is developed using the MPLAB X IDE and the XC8 C compiler. The latest firmware source code is available in the firmware directory of the project repository. The compiled firmware is also available in the release section of the project repository.

To protect the electronic components from moisture and other environmental factors, it is recommended to enclose the system in a waterproof enclosure. In our prototype build, we use an 100mm × 68mm × 50mm project enclosure to mount this controller.

This is an open hardware project. All the project firmware source code, design files, and compiled binaries are available on the GitHub project page.