#011 - Mastering Embedded Systems: Lessons from 'The Embedded Project Cookbook' with John Taylor

The Embedded Frontier

Summary

In this conversation, Jacob Beningo interviews John Taylor about his extensive experience in embedded systems and his new book, 'The Embedded Project Cookbook.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, its target audience, and key themes such as the importance of building and testing software before hardware. John shares insights on challenges in requirements gathering, the use of a reference design, and the transition from C to C++ in embedded projects. They also explore future trends in the industry, particularly the impact of AI, and conclude with key takeaways from the book.

Takeaways

• John Taylor has over 30 years of experience in embedded systems.
• The Embedded Project Cookbook was inspired by the need for better documentation and processes.
• The primary audience for the book includes software architects and tech leads.
• Building and testing software before hardware can save time and improve code quality.
• Requirements gathering is a critical yet challenging aspect of embedded systems development.
• The GM 6000 digital heat controller serves as a relatable reference design in the book.
• Source code and frameworks provided in the book can help developers bootstrap their projects.
• C++ offers advantages in type safety and encapsulation for embedded systems.
• AI is becoming part of embedded workflows, but its understanding of embedded systems is still limited.
• Quality in projects requires planning and discipline beyond just writing code.

Keywords

Embedded Systems, Embedded Project Cookbook, Software Development, Requirements Gathering, C++, AI in Embedded Systems, Software Architecture, Project Management, Hardware Development, John Taylor

Chương

1. Intro (00:00:00)

2. The Inspiration Behind the Embedded Project Cookbook (00:02:51)

3. Target Audience and Key Themes of the Book (00:06:04)

4. Building and Testing Software Before Hardware (00:08:58)

5. Challenges in Requirements Gathering for Embedded Systems (00:12:09)

6. Reference Design: The GM 6000 Digital Heat Controller (00:15:00)

7. Utilizing Source Code and Frameworks from the Book (00:18:06)

8. C vs C++ in Embedded Systems (00:20:53)

9. Future Trends in Embedded Systems and AI (00:23:51)

10. Decoupling Drivers from Hardware Platforms (00:27:09)

11. Key Takeaways from the Embedded Project Cookbook (00:30:06)