Covers basic embedded-system concepts and technologies. Intended for readers considering a career in embedded engineering, and for professionals looking to fill in some gaps.

Learning about Embedded Systems Introduction to Electronic Circuits

Learning about Embedded Systems

Introduction to Electronic Circuits

The electronic devices we encounter all around us are driven and controlled by the flow of electrical current through electronic circuits. Each circuit is an arrangement of electrical elements designed to perform specific functions. Circuits can be engineered to carry out a wide variety of operations, from simple actions to complex tasks, according to the job(s) the system must perform.

Let's begin by looking at how the key passive elements found in most electronic circuits work.

  1. Passive Elements
  2. Diodes, Transistors, and FETs
  3. Op-Amps/Comparator Circuit

Revisiting Beginners' Class Introduction to Digital Circuits

Revisiting Beginners' Class

Introduction to Digital Circuits

Review the concept of digital, and explore the design of some fundamental digital circuits.

  1. Elemental Digital Circuits
  2. Digital ICs/Combinational Logic
  3. Sequential Logic

Let’s Try! Embedded Systems Programming Introduction to MicrocontrollersUpdate

Let’s Try! Embedded Systems Programming

Introduction to Microcontrollers

We start with an introduction to the MCU’s basic structure and operation. In the next session we will look at the MCU’s peripheral circuitry. And finally we will try using an MCU in an actual system.

  1. MCU Basic Structure/Operation
  2. Peripheral Circuitry
  3. Programming Language/Software Development Environment
  4. Peripheral Circuitry Control
  5. Interrupt Processing
  6. Possible to start without starter kit! Development method using simulators

The Build-Your-Own Challenge Introductory Gadget Building

The Build-Your-Own Challenge

Introductory Gadget Building

We will build a heartbeat fan that will wave in synch with your heartbeat. We will learn as we go. So…let’s begin.

  1. What Does It Have to Do?
  2. A Closer Look at the GR-SAKURA Board, and Getting Ready
  3. Assembling the Hardware
  4. Creating the Software, and Completing the Project!

MCU Programming: Basics Essentials of Microcontroller Use Learning about Peripherals

MCU Programming: Basics

Essentials of Microcontroller Use Learning about Peripherals

In this six-part series, we look at on-chip peripheral functions for the effective use of MCUs. In particular, we will look at some core peripherals common on a wide variety of MCUs.

  1. GPIO
  2. Timers
  3. Serial Communication
  4. Interrupts
  5. Programming [1 of 2]
  6. Programming [2 of 2]

Take Advantage of Simulator Functions

Take Advantage of Simulator Functions

“This is not what I expected!” In order to avoid such situation at the end of development, it is important to use a simulator and evaluate power consumption at each stage.

  1. Current Consumption Simulator for RL78 MCU

USB Power Delivery Get to know this life changing technology

USB Power Delivery

Get to know this life changing technology

What exactly is USB PD (Power Delivery)? How can it be widely used? Why is it such a hot topic nowadays? Let’s learn from the basic and answer all these questions!

  1. Enhanced Convenience in USB Charging
  2. The Technology - Convenience and Safety
  3. USB PD Safety Implementation 
    USB Type-C™ Authentication (C-AUTH) of Legitimate Devices
  4. Renesas Solutions for USB PD
  5. Faster Development with Renesas Solutions

BLDC Motor Basics Understanding the principle and application of high efficiency motors

BLDC Motor Basics

Understanding the principle and application of high efficiency motors

The era of the highly efficient and excellent controllability BLDC (brushless DC) motor (a.k.a. Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor). We will explain the principle of how BLDC motor rotates and the control techniques.

  1. What are Brushless DC Motors
  2. Controlling BLDC Motors
  3. Renesas Solutions for BLDC Motor Control

Did you know about the Renesas University Program?

Find out more!