Fast and Effective Embedded Systems Design: Applying the ARM mbed

Tim Wilmshurst · Rob Toulson

Jul 2012 · Elsevier

About this ebook

Fast and Effective Embedded Systems Design is a fast-moving introduction to embedded system design, applying the innovative ARM mbed and its web-based development environment. Each chapter introduces a major topic in embedded systems, and proceeds as a series of practical experiments, adopting a "learning through doing" strategy. Minimal background knowledge is needed. C/C++ programming is applied, with a step-by-step approach which allows the novice to get coding quickly. Once the basics are covered, the book progresses to some "hot" embedded issues – intelligent instrumentation, networked systems, closed loop control, and digital signal processing.

Written by two experts in the field, this book reflects on the experimental results, develops and matches theory to practice, evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the technology or technique introduced, and considers applications and the wider context. Numerous exercises and end of chapter questions are included.

• A hands-on introduction to the field of embedded systems, with a focus on fast prototyping
• Key embedded system concepts covered through simple and effective experimentation
• Amazing breadth of coverage, from simple digital i/o, to advanced networking and control
• Applies the most accessible tools available in the embedded world
• Supported by mbed and book web sites, containing FAQs and all code examples
• Deep insights into ARM technology, and aspects of microcontroller architecture
• Instructor support available, including power point slides, and solutions to questions and exercises

About the author

Tim Wilmshurst has designed numerous embedded and electronic systems, including systems in climatic monitoring, earthquake research, wind tunnels, and autonomous vehicles. He is the author of several textbooks on embedded system design. In his teaching, Tim advocates “learning through doing and problem-based learning. He has been Head of Electrical Engineering at Botswana Polytechnic, Senior Design Engineer at Cambridge University, and Head of Electronics at Derby University. He is now a freelance technical author and educator.

Rob Toulson is a Visiting Professor at the University of Westminster, as well as founder and director of RT Sixty, a company that develops innovative applications for the audiovisual and music industries. His expertise covers a broad range of fields, including mobile application development, digital signal processing, embedded systems, musical acoustics, music production, and interactive sound design.