Embedded Systems Hardware Design

Design real embedded hardware--not just code.

This Embedded Systems Hardware Design course equips students with the skills needed to develop complete embedded systems by integrating both hardware and software engineering principles. As demand grows for engineers who can bridge this gap, this course prepares learners to design fully functional, real-world systems.

Embedded systems power a wide range of industries, including consumer electronics, automotive systems, aviation, transportation, agriculture, medical devices, scientific research, and industrial automation. Applications such as robotics, motion control systems, and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems rely heavily on robust embedded hardware design.

This hands-on course focuses on practical embedded hardware development workflows, guiding students through system architecture design, hardware design principles, and key embedded system components. Topics include Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) modules, microcontrollers, DSP/DSC processors, input/output (I/O) interfacing, communication protocols, and memory systems.

A key differentiator is the integration of AI-assisted engineering workflows, leveraging tools like ChatGPT to enhance:

• Hardware architecture decisions
• Block diagram creation
• Schematic design processes

By the end of the course, students will have the ability to design, prototype, and implement embedded systems that perform dedicated, real-world functions.

Course Highlights:

• Embedded system architecture and internal communication interfaces (SPI, I²C, UART, PDM)
• Hardware design methodology and specifications
• AI-assisted design workflow (e.g., ChatGPT for system and schematic development)
• Selection of microcontrollers and embedded platforms (including DSP/DSC)
• Memory systems and external storage integration
• Sensor selection and signal conditioning circuit design (with simulation)
• External communication: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Sub GHz RF modules, USB
• Integration of COTS modules
• Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design:-specifications, requirements, generating manufacturing files
• Firmware programming, debugging, and system testing

Course Learning Outcomes:

• Design and document an embedded system using block diagrams
• Select and implement appropriate interfaces between system modules
• Design signal conditioning circuits for sensors and actuators
• Integrate hardware components into a functional system
• Build, program, and test an embedded system

Hardware: STM32 IOT Discovery Node 915MHZ - Mfg. Part # B-L475E-IOT01A. Part can be purchased from MOUSER Electronics or Digi-Key Electronics or any other reputable electronics dealer. This microcontroller is used in all four required courses in this program.

Course Typically Offered: Online in Winter and Summer quarters.

Prerequisite: ECE-40153 Introduction to Embedded Systems or equivalent knowledge and experience. Knowledge of electronic components and modules and the ability to read and understand electrical schematics required for this course. Working knowledge of KiCAD and LTSpice will be very helpful to students in this course but not required.

Next Step: After completing this course, consider taking ECE-40291 Embedded Controller Programming with Embedded C to continue learning.

Contact: For more information about this course please email unexengr@ucsd.edu