Embedded¶
Embedded systems are small computers hidden inside the devices around us. They sense, decide, and control. Think of sensors that measure temperature, motors that open a door, or lights that dim automatically. You write the software that talks directly to the hardware.
What can you do with it?¶
- Measure the world: read sensors (light, temperature, distance, motion).
- Make things smart: control LEDs, buzzers, displays, motors, and relays.
- Connect to the web: send data to a dashboard or app, or control your project remotely.
- Build prototypes: quickly test ideas for products and installations.
- Combine disciplines: code, electronics, design, and user experience come together.
Where do you encounter embedded systems?¶
- Home: smart lights, thermostats, robot vacuum cleaners.
- Healthcare: wearables, sensors for safety and comfort.
- Mobility: e-bikes, car components, traffic systems.
- Industry: production lines, sensor networks, remote maintenance.
- Sports & gaming: controllers, haptic/feedback devices, scoreboards.
- Sustainability: energy monitoring, smart switching, weather stations.
Arduino¶
A beginner-friendly way to start with embedded development is with Arduino. Arduino is a popular, affordable microcontroller ecosystem that helps you go from idea to working prototype quickly.
- What it is: a small programmable board (like an Arduino Uno or an ESP32) with pins to connect sensors/actuators.
- How you program it: using the Arduino IDE with C/C++-like code. The ESP32 can also be programmed via the Arduino ecosystem.
- Why it’s nice: a big community, lots of examples, and countless sensors/modules available.
- What you can do with it: control LEDs, measure with sensors, move motors, connect to Wi‑Fi, and much more.