Course detail

Application of Embedded Systems in Mechatronics

FSI-REV Acad. year: 2027/2028 Summer semester

The course introduces students to the fundamental principles of designing and developing embedded applications. Students will understand the architecture of embedded systems and the principles of working with microcontroller peripherals, and learn efficient algorithm design in environments with limited computing and memory resources.

The theoretical lectures are complemented by practical exercises in which students learn to program in C, design firmware, and work with AVR microcontrollers while developing simple embedded applications.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

5

Entry knowledge

- Ability to read technical documentation in English.

- Basic knowledge of algorithms and programming.

- Knowledge of basic electrical engineering principles.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Assessment follows a 0–100 point scale:

up to 40 points for tests during the semester.

up to 60 points for the semester project.

Project and assignment evaluations are based primarily on functionality, implementation quality, and adherence to technical requirements. Attendance at lectures and lab sessions is mandatory and monitored.

Aims

The course provides a comprehensive introduction to embedded systems development. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

- understand microcontroller architecture and the operating principles of their peripherals,

- program microcontrollers in C,

- design, implement, and test basic embedded applications,

- independently analyze technical problems and develop functional firmware solutions for microcontrollers.

Study aids

KERNIGHAN, Brian W. a Dennis M. RITCHIE. Programovací jazyk C. Brno: Computer Press, 2013. ISBN 978-80-251-0897-0.

WHITE, Elecia. Making Embedded Systems. 2. vyd. O’Reilly Media, 2024. ISBN 978-1-098-15154-6.

The study programmes with the given course

Programme B-MET-P: Mechatronics, Bachelor's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

13 hours, compulsory

Syllabus

1. Introduction to embedded systems and the C language


2. Functions and modular programming


3. Pointers and structures, preprocessor and compiler


4. MCU architecture and working with GPIO


5. Interrupts and timers


6. UART communication


7. ADC and DAC converters


8. PWM signal generation


9. Watchdog (WDT), low-power modes


10. SPI communication, I2C communication


11. Design and debugging of embedded applications


12. Microproject assignment (audio player)


13. Summary and project consultations

Laboratory exercise

39 hours, compulsory

Syllabus

1. Introduction and familiarization with the development environment


2. C programming language – basic syntax, functions, conditionals and loops


3. C programming language – pointers, structures and handling data in memory


4. Working with GPIO – inputs, outputs and LED control


5. Interrupts and timers


6. UART communication – data transfer to a PC


7. Signal measurement using ADC and signal generation using DAC


8. Signal generation using PWM


9. Watchdog and energy-saving modes


10. SPI and I²C communication


11. Semester project – assignment, design, implementation and debugging


12. Microproject (audio player)


13. Summary and frequently asked questions