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CS4101: Introduction to Embedded Systems

Free

The course is designed around labs, using TI MSP430 LaunchPad and Arduino Uno to discuss concepts such as basic I/O, timing and clocking, interrupt handling, serial communication, embedded operating systems, synchronization, etc.

FreeFree tier
Type
Open Source

About CS4101: Introduction to Embedded Systems

CS4101 is a university-level course introducing embedded systems and microcontrollers through hands-on labs. Students work with TI MSP430 LaunchPad and Arduino Uno boards to learn fundamental concepts including general-purpose I/O, timers and clocks, interrupt handling, analog-to-digital conversion, low-power optimization, serial communication, DAC and PWM, and the FreeRTOS real-time operating system with tasks scheduling and synchronization. The course includes 11 labs that progressively build practical embedded programming skills.

Key Features

Hands-on labs with TI MSP430 LaunchPad and Arduino Uno
11 labs covering basic I/O, timers, interrupts, ADC, low-power optimization, serial communication
Introduces FreeRTOS for tasks, scheduling, and synchronization
Covers DAC and PWM on Arduino
Reference books by David Simon and John Davies included

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Practical, lab-driven approach with popular development boards
  • Covers a comprehensive set of embedded system concepts from basics to RTOS
  • Includes both MSP430 and Arduino platforms for diverse learning
  • Clear course structure with separate lecture and lab components
Cons
  • Course materials are from 2016 and may not reflect latest hardware/software versions
  • Requires physical hardware (MSP430 LaunchPad, Arduino Uno) which may not be readily available
  • No online simulation or virtual lab alternatives mentioned

Best For

Learning embedded systems fundamentals through practical experimentationUnderstanding microcontroller programming with real hardwareStudying real-time operating systems and task management

FAQ

What hardware is used in this course?
The course uses TI MSP430 LaunchPad and Arduino Uno development boards.
What topics are covered in the labs?
Labs cover general-purpose I/O, timers, interrupts, ADC, low-power optimization, serial communication, Arduino basics, DAC & PWM, FreeRTOS, tasks and scheduling, and task synchronization.
Who is the instructor?
The course is taught by Chung-Ta King, professor at National Tsing Hua University.