What is Embedded Software Engineering and how to build a career in it?

Embedded engineering is a lucrative career opportunity which has generated more than 3,00000 jobs in the US alone and this number is expected to grow unprecedentedly by 2018. Pursued software engineering? This is the best career path to look forward to. 

What do embedded engineers do?

Embedded systems are generally a combination of hardware designed for a specific purpose and a software that offers functionality to it. Embedded engineers primarily create such software that control machines and devices using microprocessors, programming tools and operating systems. They also do the system testing to ensure everything is working perfectly fine. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of an embedded system engineer:

  • Working on software bricks or complete products, leveraging all the security parameters 
  • Implementation of software architecture
  • Ensuring that the delivery code runs smoothly 
  • Testing modules and resolving issues
  • Monitoring activity of embedded systems
  • Analyzing software quality and optimizing performance
  • Post production support 

What skills does an embedded software engineer need?

Some of the important skills that an embedded software engineer might be needing include:

1. Knowledge of programming languages for embedded systems

Being an embedded software engineer requires good knowledge of coding languages like C, C++ and Assembly. Python is also one of the most used languages these days to develop embedded software. Either of these languages can be used to develop embedded software depending on the platform used. 

2.  Usage of instrumentation 

Instrumentation is the usage of equipment and tools used for testing and debugging the software.  In-circuit debuggers, oscilloscopes, logic analysers, debug headers are some of the instrumentations regularly used by embedded software engineers. Since an embedded software engineer has to deal with both the software and hardware, they must know both the components thoroughly. This will help speed up the development and debugging process. 

3. Get the knowledge of firmware 

Each embedded system has a different set of challenges. One might require improvement in security or latency, the other might need a better processor and so on. Staying aware of the limitations of the hardware is the thing that separates high level applications from embedded firmware. In order to overcome the challenges, it is essential to understand the limitations first.  

4. Learn schematics basics and PCB design

Schematics are the PCB design layouts that showcase the physical design of the circuit. These design files are used to create circuit boards and the ability to understand schematics is an important embedded software engineer skill. 

5. Try learning embedded communication protocols

Communication protocols are primarily rules that allow data exchange between two systems. There are several interfaces like LIN, CAN, USB, Modbus etc with their own protocols. In order to initiate communication between these interfaces, a specific set of protocols is to be followed. The type of embedded platform that a developer creates will determine the kind of interface it will require to improve the performance of the application. Embedded software engineers must know the way to work around interfaces.   

Summary

Top skills needed to become an embedded software engineer 

  • Software development: C, C++
  • Distributed computing
  • Information retrieval
  • Networking and data storage
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Large-scale system design
  • UI design and mobile development
  • System security
  • Natural language processing
  • Soft skills that an embedded software engineer must possess
  • Effective communication
  • Social competency
  • Eagerness to learn new things
  • Problem solving ability
  • Analytical thought process

Conclusion

The demand for embedded software engineers is tremendous in the market and if you too are planning to pursue this profile as a professional, try enhancing your basic knowledge. If you have graduated from computer science, electrical engineering, robotics or embedded systems engineering, you can be a perfect candidate to apply for this job role. Some certifications like Certified LabView Embedded Systems Developer (CLED) or Certified Automation Professional (CAP) from International Society of Automation can also enhance your resume. So in case you are choosing this career path, all you have to do is gain the skills that we mentioned in the blog above. 

For more such updates and hire dedicated developers, contact our experts @www.openxcell.com  

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