Use of discrete and soft processors in introductory microprocessors and embedded systems curriculum

Abstract

This paper describes a sequence of two courses, starting with the teaching of introductory microprocessor concepts and extending to advanced embedded system programming. The introductory microprocessor course is taught using a soft processor with a field-programmable gate array as the development platform, a combination which allows the course to undergo continual improvement without being limited by fixed hardware. The second course builds on the foundation of the first course, with an emphasis on working with advanced devices, building complete embedded systems, and developing embedded programming skills with different targets. This paper describes the experiences gained from the first course, and the detailed plan for the second course. This paper also describes which tools to include and which to leave out in the learning process for this process to be most effective from both the students' and instructor's perspective.

Teaching programming using embedded systems

“…Mallen and Brylow at Marquette include embedded systems development in multiple courses within their curriculum [30]. Alabama [31], Boise State [32], Waterloo [33], and Vanderbilt University [34] teach embedded systems in their Engineering Programs.…”

Using LC-3 Soft Core on an FPGA Development Board for Microprocessor Labs

“…Google search shows that many universities use a 32-bit soft core NIOS II provided by Altera in their microprocessor lab courses (e.g., [3]). NIOS II is a good choice because it comes with an integrated development environment with an assembler and a C compiler that compiles C programs into NIOS instructions.…”

Synergies Of Teaching Assembly And C In A Junior Microprocessors Course

“…In the ECE 332/332L Microprocessors course at BSU, basic microprocessor concepts are first explored with assembly language then revisited and expanded upon using C. A modern development platform consisting of an FPGA and a soft core processor with a MIPS-like design were selected to implement the teaching of the C programming language in addition to assembly in the updated Microprocessors course. The use of FPGAs in place of traditional instructional platforms has been an important part of the process of updating the computer engineering curriculum at BSU [4,5]. For the Microprocessors course, the FPGA is used to instantiate a softcore processor.…”