Overview

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The Programming Embedded Systems (PES) book introduces a disciplined approach to writing programs for embedded computing systems. The approach involves use of a computation model--synchronous state machines--appropriate for capturing behavior of time-oriented systems, with time-orientation being perhaps the most unique and important distinguishing feature of embedded systems, and appropriate for implementation in the C language running on microcontrollers.

PES also covers various important embedded programming issues, such as bit-level manipulation in C, programming concurrent tasks on a single microcontroller, processor utilization and task scheduling, coding issues like rounding and fixed-point programming, and implementing on FPGA via VHDL.

PES elevates embedded systems programming to a discipline by introducing concepts that are independent of a particular microcontroller, where those concepts lead to highly-structured, readable, maintainable, scalable, and analyzable code. The approach is based on state-of-the-art methodology developed as part of an NSF project to advance embedded systems education.

PES represents a modern approach to creating learning content. Its conciseness enables a complete read and learning of key concepts; reference material is abundant on the web. PES is intended for electronic publication, being read on various devices, or being printed by the end user without excessive paper use. PES is amenable to update and revision on a faster cycle than traditional book "editions," leading to a book that is more modern and with a lower purchase price.

PES also uses a modern approach by stressing active learning, coming with tools that enable a reader to put learned concepts into practice. The RI tools include C capture, compilation, simulation, and debug for programming the RI microcontroller (a virtual microcontroller ideal for learning), all in a single easy-to-use graphical interface.

Also available -- Programming in C: A Simple Introduction

Programming in C (ProgC) is a straightforward introduction to programming. Uses the C language, while the concepts apply to various languages. Uses the RIMS tool, perhaps the simplest tool to install and learn for C.

To Obtain the PES and ProgC Books:

Click "Purchase books" at the top of this page. With a book purchase, you receive a PDF copy of the book and a time-limited license key for the RI tools. A printed version is also available.

To Obtain the RI Tools:

Click "RI tools" at the top of this page, where you'll find info and the download instructions. A license key is needed to activate the tools and is provided automatically with a PES e-book purchase (or by requestng a key via email to the below PES info address with proof-of-purchase of a new printed version). See the RI tools page for info on renewing the license.

Options for prior PES/RI-tool purchasers

About

PES and ProgC were developed jointly at UC Riverside and UC Irvine. They are based upon work supported in part by the U.S. National Science Foundation's CCLI (Course Curriculum and Laboratory Improvement) program under grant number DUE-0836905. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSF.