This module offers a deep dive into the architectural intricacies of the PIC microcontroller family. Students explore the Harvard architecture, memory segmentation (including RAM, ROM, and EEPROM), instruction cycles, and key functional blocks like the ALU, registers, and I/O ports. Detailed attention is given to the Special Function Registers (SFRs), which allow fine-grained control over peripherals and hardware modules. Learners will compare RISC and CISC architectures to understand PIC's efficiency in embedded applications. Through hands-on programming and simulation exercises, students become familiar with how microcontrollers interpret and execute instructions at the hardware level. By mastering the internal structure and execution flow, learners will be able to write optimized code and configure the microcontroller for various real-time embedded applications.
This foundational module introduces the core concepts and characteristics of embedded systems. It discusses the defining features that set embedded systems apart from general-purpose computing systems, including dedicated functionality, constrained resources, and real-time operation. Learners examine real-life examples such as automotive controllers, smart appliances, medical devices, and industrial automation systems to understand how embedded systems power modern technology. The module also introduces the layered structure of embedded design, which includes hardware, firmware, middleware, and the application layer. By understanding how these layers interact, students are equipped to approach embedded system design methodically. This knowledge forms the basis for understanding how microcontrollers like the PIC are used to build compact, efficient, and purpose-driven electronic systems.
This module outlines the complete process of developing an embedded system, from concept to deployment. Learners explore various phases including requirement analysis, hardware/software co-design, prototyping, testing, debugging, and deployment. Emphasis is placed on understanding system constraints such as power consumption, performance, memory footprint, and cost. Project planning, documentation, and version control tools are introduced to align with industry-standard development workflows. By working through case studies, students experience how embedded solutions are iteratively developed and refined. This comprehensive view helps them appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of embedded systems and prepares them to contribute effectively to real-world development projects.
This module introduces basic hardware control using General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins. Learners start by understanding how to connect and control LEDs through digital output. Topics include current-limiting resistors, sourcing vs sinking current, and setting data direction registers. Through practical programming exercises, students develop skills to blink LEDs, create patterns. The module reinforces timing concepts through software and hardware delays. These foundational skills enable learners to gain hands-on familiarity with embedded hardware control, which will serve as the basis for more complex interfaces in subsequent modules.
This module focuses on reading digital inputs via push-button switches. Students learn how to configure microcontroller pins for input, detect state changes, and implement debounce logic both in hardware and software. They explore polling versus interrupt-driven approaches and learn when to use each method. Example applications include toggling an LED or changing device states with user input. Students will also implement safety measures to avoid logic errors or bounce-related misreads. Mastery of button interfacing is crucial for creating interactive embedded systems like control panels and human-machine interfaces.
This module teaches how to visually present numeric data using 7-segment displays. Students explore the structure and pin configuration of both common cathode and common anode types. They learn to write code to light up individual segments and display digits using binary-to-decimal conversion. Multiplexing techniques are covered for controlling multiple digits efficiently using fewer GPIOs. Applications include digital clocks, counters, and voltage displays. By the end of this module, students will understand how to design and implement numerical display systems that are responsive, accurate, and efficient.
This module introduces the 16x2 alphanumeric LCD, a vital component for providing visual feedback in embedded systems. Students learn about the LCD pin configuration, register commands, and modes of operation (4-bit and 8-bit). They develop routines for initializing the display, positioning the cursor, and printing strings. Real-world use cases like sensor data display, device status updates, and interactive menus are implemented. Emphasis is placed on efficient coding practices and timing considerations to ensure reliable communication between the microcontroller and the LCD.
This module covers how to interface and scan matrix keypads (e.g., 4x4) using row-column scanning methods. Students write code to detect key presses, implement debounce algorithms, and map key codes to usable input. Projects include password entry systems, menu navigation, and basic calculators. This module enhances students’ ability to manage multiple inputs and handle asynchronous user interactions, a critical skill in embedded UI design.
In this module, learners explore controlling DC motors using H-Bridge driver circuits. Students understand the concepts of direction control, speed modulation using PWM, and safety aspects like back EMF protection. Real-world projects include line-following robots and motorized conveyor belts. The module also introduces closed-loop speed control using feedback mechanisms. This hands-on experience provides insight into mechatronics, automation, and robotic systems.
Students delve into the microcontroller’s built-in timer modules to generate delays, time intervals, and PWM signals. They explore timer modes, prescaler settings, and overflow events. Applications include digital clocks, event counters, and precise signal generation. Interrupt-driven timer programming is also introduced to achieve non-blocking time management. Mastery of timers is essential for designing time-critical systems in industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.
This module introduces UART protocol for asynchronous serial communication. Students learn how to set baud rates, configure transmit and receive registers, and handle interrupts for data communication. Practical exercises include connecting the microcontroller to a PC for terminal-based interaction and data logging. Applications such as firmware debugging, Bluetooth integration, and remote monitoring are explored, making UART an indispensable skill for embedded developers.
SPI is a high-speed, synchronous serial communication protocol. Students explore master-slave configuration, clock polarity and phase, and multi-device communication. Projects include interfacing with external flash memory, sensors, and display modules. The module emphasizes low-latency data transfer and efficiency. Hands-on labs build skills for connecting high-speed peripherals, making this module vital for performance-intensive embedded applications.
This module explains the I2C protocol, widely used for connecting multiple peripherals using only two wires. Students learn device addressing, data framing, and clock synchronization. Practical implementations include interfacing with EEPROMs, RTC modules, and digital sensors. The focus is on understanding bus arbitration and error handling, ensuring robust and reliable communication in compact systems.
The final module explores how interrupts are used to handle real-time events. Topics include interrupt vectors, enabling/disabling interrupts, and writing Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs). Use cases like emergency stops, sensor triggers, and communication events are implemented. The module teaches prioritization and nesting of interrupts, making learners adept at designing responsive and efficient embedded systems that react promptly to external and internal signals.
Upon successful completion of the course, learners will:
