Computers as Components

Computers as Components: Principles of Embedded Computing System Design, Third Edition, presents essential knowledge on embedded systems technology and techniques. Updated for today’s embedded systems design methods, this volume features new examples including digital signal processing, multimedia, and cyber-physical systems. It also covers the latest processors from Texas Instruments, ARM, and Microchip Technology plus software, operating systems, networks, consumer devices, and more.

Like the previous editions, this textbook uses real processors to demonstrate both technology and techniques; shows readers how to apply principles to actual design practice; stresses necessary fundamentals that can be applied to evolving technologies; and helps readers gain facility to design large, complex embedded systems. Updates in this edition include: description of cyber-physical systems; exploration of the PIC and TI OMAP processors; high-level representations of systems using signal flow graphs; enhanced material on interprocess communication and buffering in operating systems; and design examples that include an audio player, digital camera, and cell phone. The author maintains a robust ancillary site at http://www.marilynwolf.us/CaC3e/index.html which includes a variety of support materials for instructors and students, including PowerPoint slides for each chapter; lab assignments developed for multiple systems including the ARM-based BeagleBoard computer; downloadable exercises solutions and source code; and links to resources and additional information on hardware, software, systems, and more.

This book will appeal to students in an embedded systems design course as well as to researchers and savvy professionals schooled in hardware or software design.