Some subject related to microprocessors is strongly recommended

After completing this subject, the students shall be able: - To know the different kinds of embedded systems and their application fields, including reconfigurable devices, including those based on generic operating systems (e.g. Android). - To know the differences between a reconfigurable digital system and a microprocessor-based digital system, and to be able to evaluate for a given application what is the best solution in an embedded system. - To know and exploit the advantages and disadvantages to develope an embedded system, by using a platform based on a generic operating system. - To know developtment tools for embedded systems.

Embedded systems are digital processing and computation systems that are in charge of a certain number of specific functions, and usually working in real time. They can be implemented in a variety of ways, including the use of microcontrollers, or embedding microprocessors in a reconfigurable device. In this subject the different available technologies for developing embedded systems will be described. The student will learn how to evaluate and compare which of the different development approach is more suitable for a certain application. It will also be taught how to identify and specify the real-time processing functions, and their hardware-software efficient implementation. 1. Introduction to embedded systems - Embedded systems definition and main features - Types - Design challenges 2. Hardware component - Typical architecture - Inputs and outputs types - Processing unit 3. Software component - Necessary tools - Standalone applications - Operating Systems 4. Embedded systems in FPGA - Microprocessors embedded in Xilinx FPGAs - Design environments in Xilinx for embedded systems - Operating systems - Debugging and validation 5. Resource optimitazion - Critical parameters - Evaluation and optimization techniques + HW/SW co-design + HW techniques + SW techniques

Theory classes Practical and laboratory classes Tutorials Work in groups Individual work