CSCE 496/896: Embedded Systems Design and Implementation


Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering
University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Course Overview:
This course is designed to address the current practices in embedded systems design, implementation, and deployment. As of now, embedded computers are the fastest growing area of computing. Over ninety percents of all processors are used in embedded applications, which include "Anytime-Anywhere" computing (e.g. portable phones, Personal Digital Assistants), digital cable decoding, sensors, and micro-controllers for mechanical, chemical, biological processes, etc. Thus, the focus of this course will be on current practices adopted by developers and efforts to advance the field of embedded computing. We tentatively propose that the focus of this class be on the following topics:
  • System-On-a-Chip (SOC) and System-On-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC)
  • Low power design
  • Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)
  • Rapid Prototyping using Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)
  • High-performance embedded processors and systems
  • Programming embeded devices

In this class, we will address these topics from theoretical and practical perspectives. The major hands-on exercices will include ASIC design, hardware/software interface, application development in embedded systems, tools for performance and power analysis, and advanced processor architectures for embedded systems. The lecture materials will be based on a combination of textbooks and research publications. The participants will also independently examine current practices in embedded systems design.
For more information about this class, please refer to the syllabus.
Course Materials:
Lecture notes will be provided weekly. In addition, several documents are also very useful in understanding this course. They are available from the course materials page.
There will be several assignments throughout the semester. You can access them through the assignments page.
The discussion forum is available for students and staff members to exchange information. You can use it to ask questions, express your opinions, get class information and announcements, share some ideas, and look up answers to your questions.
I will provide an on-line help page that will be continuously updated throughout the semester. Please check it regularly.
Class Announcement: