Embedded means something that is attached to another thing. An embedded system can be thought of as a computer hardware system having software embedded in it. An embedded system is a microprocessor- or micro controller-based system of hardware and software.
It is designed to perform dedicated functions within a larger mechanical or electrical system. Such a system can be small and independent or large and computational.
At core an embedded system consists of 3 things:
An input Device which collects input from user or environment via a sensor or a remote control. A Micro-controller i.e the the Brain or the processing unit. It instruct the output device to perform as per the logic defined inside the collected information from input device.
An output devics which take instruction from micro-controller and perform accordingly.
Microwave, TV, Calculator, Audio Player, Digital Camera, Printer, Traffic Lights, Digital Thermometer, Set Top Box (TV), Wifi Router, Modem are some popular consumer electronics products we use da to day basis and all of them are example of embedded systems.
Embedded system is a vast domain. There are huge number of products which are field specific like products used in medical electronics sector, aerospace, automobiles, defense, toys, consumer electronics, food industry, telecommunication, Industrial machines, space, agriculture, construction all of them are example of embedded systems.
So obviously mentioned fields has huge scope of employment. All the leading brand in consumer electronics, medical equipment, automotive industry can offer employment in embedded systems.
Required Skill :
Now let's see what are the skill required for such jobs.
Working knowledge of interfacing micro-controllers with different sensors and peripherals, Kernel Programming, Device Drivers, Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) are also helpful.
2. Circuit designing skills : Understanding of circuits, Printed Circuit Boards,Power Supply Circuit Designing, sensors, microprocessors, memory, CAD and other subjects can be useful for systems engineers.
3. Analytical skills : Systems engineers usually works with large volumes of product data and information to design effective solutions. Knowing basic analytical models and tools can be beneficial for systems embedded engineers.
4. Communication skills : Embedded systems engineers coordinate with several experts from the production, hardware, software, management and product design departments. Collaborating with other engineers to exchange feedback and work as a team is essential for systems engineers. They may also have to maintain meticulous records and documentation of their process, which requires strong written communication skills.
5. Attention to detail : Designing software systems for embedded devices is a complex process and requires focus and attention to small details.
Some other skills are very basic and essential for accomplishing work responsibility on day to day basis, such as
6. Self Learning Ability : Electronics is a market driven subject and self learning ability will help someone to upgrade with time.
7. Interest in Learning new hardware
8. Patience to Read Datasheets
9. Documentation as per company norms
10. Following Software Development Life Cycle or SDLC
11. Working in a Team12. Completing Work in Deadlines
13. Making Reports as per the Company Requirement
Popular Job Role :
We have listed some popular job role in embedded systems domain :
1. Biomedical Engineer : Responsible for
i. Design, development, safety testing, repair and maintenance of biomedical equipment
ii. Ensures the equipment is working with proper functionality and quality control standards.
Requires a bachelor’s degree and 0-2 years of direct experience in the field.
2. Embedded Systems Architect : Responsible for
i. designing and implementing software of embedded devices and systems
ii. review and design code
iii. integrate and validate new product designs
iv. develop system software
Proven work experience in software engineering required.
3. Embedded Software Engineer : Responsible for
i. development of embedded software programs.
ii. required to collaborate and work according to client specifications and needs.
iii. client-facing communication skills are necessary.
iv. often needs to work as part of a larger team.
Specialized degree in embedded software engineering is needed.
4. Embedded Systems Engineer : Responsible for
i. design, development, production, testing, and maintenance of embedded systems
ii. run regular tests to eliminate potential issues, provides system level support working with cross functional teams ( Mechanical, Software , Hardware, etc) .
Systems Engineer provides Subject Matter Expert level experience in Software & Hardware Integration. Computer science or engineering degree required.
5. Firmware Engineer : Responsible for
i. creating software used in programmable devices.
ii. designs and implements algorithms for firmware and create technical documents for firmware usage.
iii.oversees firmware development process from design to creation.
iv. manages updates and provides support.
May be asked to alter existing software based on company needs. Firmware engineering certification required.
6. Hardware Engineer : Responsible for
i. all aspects of the electrical system design which includes high-speed digital, power management, PCB layouts and thermal management.
ii. collaborates with algorithm and software team.
iii. works directly with System Architecture, Firmware, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers.
Requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
7. Hardware Test Engineer : Responsible for
i. design, implementation and testing of hardware systems
ii. must work autonomously and have strong problem solving skill
A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is mandatory.
8. Mobile App Developer : Responsible for
i. writing software for hardware functionality on various handheld mobile devices
ii. work closely with design and development teams.
Bachelor’s degree and extensive software development experience required.
9. Printed Circuit Board Designer : Responsible for
i. designs and development of circuit boards
ii. works with larger team. Typically works for software companies
iii. must have team collaboration skills and be able to work independently
Background in software engineering or multiple years of experience designing circuit boards is required.
10. R&D Engineer : Responsible for
i. researching and creating new products and test existing products.
ii. often works with marketing teams, executive teams, and other related teams.
R&D engineers report to project managers. Must have good leadership and communication skills. An engineering background is preferred.
11. Software Test Engineer : Responsible for
i. developing and implementing testing methods
ii. reporting test results and recommending improvements to software programs
iii. creates Test software to test functionality of Product Code.
Job requirements typically includes a bachelor’s degree along with excellent technical skills, communications skill and creativity.
Like any domain initial packages are not very high, although experience of 3-4 years, you will get attractive packages. And experienced embedded system developers have extremely high demand in India.
Is Embedded Systems a Good Career Option ?
Yes obviously. For those who has inclination and basic subjective degree like ECE, its a great match for them.
To accelerate your preparation you can join online courses.
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Online viewing is increasing and accordingly the use of the embedded system and IoT is growing rapidly.
1. Engineer in embedded Linux : Responsible for i.developing low-level components along with significant embedded limitations
ii.running the unit tests on them
2. Embedded IoT application developer : Responsibility includes
i. design and develop embedded software in C and C++ for various apps
ii.compliance checking of new product solution
3. Cyber-security embedded developer : Responsibility includes
i. designing APIs to keep user data safe
ii. understanding hardware security modules, public key infrastructure transport layer security, and typical application security flaws,
iii.testing and troubleshooting.
4. Embedded application engineer : Responsibility includes
i. managing the frameworks for embedded software
ii. working in open source stacks and apps
iii. enhancing skills in various programming languages, consisting of Embedded C and Python
5. Engineer of micro-controller firmware : Responsibility includes
i. writing firmware for micro-controllers
ii. using C and C++ for designing and developing embedded software
How to enter the domain :
In a nutshell getting a job require few factors at the right place like demand in the company and supply of eligible fresher.First entering any field identify your interests and then get the right kind of education. If possible enroll for courses in relative domain. Apply your knowledge to find internship. Write your resume and apply for the job. Always keep yourself updated with latest trend in technology.
Want to know whether domain shift from Embedded systems to VLSI is possible or not , read here.
Find the video lecture here :
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