Learning an Embedded Systems includes learning both software and hardware aspects. Embedded Systems each has different features and operational characteristics, and will require some initial learning to get a basic setup working. You'll need to learn how to write and compile code, load the compiled code into the memory of the Embedded Systems and then cause the embedded microcontroller (or processor) to execute the code. A simple test program can be used to tell if your Embedded Systems is working. Once the test program is working, you can move on to learn more advanced features of the Embedded Systems.
The ways to learn Embedded Systems are:
1. Learn the basics of the C programming language. C is a good language to learn because many (if not all) Embedded Systemss will have a C compiler available. A C programming book, such as "C Programming: A Modern Approach, 2nd Edition" by K.N. King, can help you learn C.
2. Buy or borrow an Embedded Systems development board. For example, Atmel offers the ATAVR Xplain evaluation and demonstration kit for the ATxmega128A1 microcontroller. The Xplain kit, at around $30, is an inexpensive Embedded Systems to learn with. The PIC microcontrollers from Microchip are also popular Embedded Systems to learn.
3. Become familiar with the features and operation of your Embedded Systems. You'll want to understand the memory organization, peripheral operations (e.g., timers, data ports, etc.) and interrupt operation.
4. Test your setup by compiling and running a basic program. Your test program should do something simple and easily observed, such as flashing an LED on the development board.
5. Learn more advanced features of your Embedded Systems by compiling and running programs that exercise different features and peripherals. Write code using timers, data communication ports, analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, and any other Embedded Systems peripherals you are interested in.
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