Course syllabus - Embedded systems I

Objectives

The main objective for this course is to introduce the students to the subject of Embedded Systems and explain what differs this type of systems from traditional computer systems found in, e.g., desktop computers. After taking this course, the students will possess such knowledge and understanding that they will be able to apply different technical solutions for development of embedded real-time systems in a structured way.
 
 

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

1. describe and argue about the characteristics and requirements of embedded systems
2. identify the hardware components that can be a part of an embedded system, and analyze how they can influence the choice of the programming model used
3. develop computer programs for embedded systems, where the communication with the environment is done via the peripheral devices (e.g., via interrupts) and/or using the support from a real-time operating system
4. apply scheduling algorithms for embedded systems that require predictable timing behavior
5. optimize system performance, on different levels, e.g., CPU and memory usage in embedded devices
6. use different tools and apply methods to program, debug and test embedded systems in practical applications
 

Course content

This course provides a basic knowledge and understanding about the methods and techniques for engineering of embedded system and real-time applications. Issues such as concerns to environment, scarce resources, real-time computing, hardware platforms, predictability and robustness will be introduced. The course will be partially focused on practical issues related to programming embedded systems. Furthermore, the students will learn how to use existing tool support, e.g., real-time operating systems, debuggers and IDEs, to develop, test and run an application.

Tuition

Lectures and programming exercises.

Specific requirements

At least 150 ECTS credits of which at least 90 ECTS credits in computer science and/or electronics that include courses in programming corresponding 15 ECTS credits and at least 22,5 credits in Mathematics/Applied Mathematics. In addition Swedish course B/Swedish course 3 and English course A/English course 6 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course B/Swedish course 3.

Examination

Laboratory work (LAB1), 3,5 credits, (examines the learning objectives 2-4), Marks Fail (U) or Pass (G)
Written examination (TEN1), 4 credits, (examines the learning objectives 2-4, Marks Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass with credit, Pass, Fail

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

The course completely overlaps with DVA316 Embedded systems I and DVA431 Embedded systems I. The course also overlaps with 3 credits towards CDT308 Real-Time Systems I, distance course.