This article looks at Direct Memory Access (DMA), an important mechanism for high performance data transfer in computer systems. It explains the benefits of using DMA in embedded systems, what needs to be considered when writing software to perform DMA transfers, and some of the pitfalls to be aware of.

This article looks at the nature of real-time operating systems, the benefits that they can bring to software developers and electronic engineers working with microprocessor based systems and some considerations when exploring this approach to system design.

There is an almost bewilderingly wide selection of real-time operating systems (RTOSs) and embeddable operating systems available for embedded system developers to choose from.

At Pebble Bay, we work with many of them and have noticed a trend towards use of operating systems which are available on an open-source basis.

The marriage of a configurable processor with a lightweight open-source kernel that provides a standard programming interface would seem to provide an ideal platform for developing deeply embedded systems.

In tough economic times, it is easy to batten down the hatches and wait for the storm to pass. Simply sitting it out may work, but it can also prohibit your future growth. Instead of passively waiting for the storm to pass, why not take the opportunity to look inside your existing infrastructure and technology and identify the areas where you can increase revenue, productivity and profit.

This whitepaper identifies some of the important questions to consider when selecting a real-time operating system for an embedded system. The paper also looks at the benefits and potential problems of proprietary and open source solutions and explains why Pebble Bay is well placed to help you make the right choice.

Many embedded applications require a database, for example to store configuration data or the results of calculations or measurements.

For embedded applications, simplicity and compactness are key criteria. SQLite is an open source relational database engine with a SQL-compatible query mechanism that meets these requirements, yet provides the power needed for sophisticated applications. This makes it ideal for the embedded world, which has led SQLite to become the one of the most widely-deployed SQL database engines.