Embedded Systems Design

Microprocessors are becoming increasingly present in many aspects of our daily lives. They have become the standard way of implementing digital systems ranging from sophisticated process control systems to cars, burglar alarms and even children's toys. As a result, the demand for these products is increasing dramatically, as is the need for knowledge and the understanding of technology. This is a guide to all aspects of embedded system design, including the hardware, software and design trade-offs associated with design. However, most hardware these days comes ready packaged as a microcontroller and so the emphasis in the book is on software, since this is where the engineer must develop expertise. The approach taken is largely practical, the aim being to explain how systems are designed in the real world rather than in theory. In keeping with this approach, there is a chapter of case studies included in the book to allow the readers to investigate their own real systems and gain practical experience.