NXP's Brendan Slade discusses why major semiconductor companies are investing heavily in Zephyr RTOS, exploring how this open-source real-time operating system is transforming embedded development for IoT and edge computing applications. The conversation covers NXP's role as a founding platinum member of the Zephyr project, practical advice for developers evaluating RTOS options, and the collaborative ecosystem driving innovation in microcontroller software development.Key Takeaways:• Zephyr provides integrated middleware beyond just a kernel, unlike traditional RTOS options like FreeRTOS• NXP was a founding platinum member of Zephyr project to drive strategic direction for microcontroller enablement• Device tree configuration is the biggest learning curve hurdle, but once mastered, enables easy hardware portability• The Zephyr project has ~50 members including major OEMs from automotive, industrial, and consumer sectors• All code contributions require pull requests, tests, and peer review - no single company can force changes• Power management infrastructure is built into Zephyr drivers, enabling faster development of low-power applications• Training resources are available from multiple partners, and NXP offers Visual Studio Code extensions for easier development• The MCX N947 Freedom board (~$30) provides an excellent platform for exploring Zephyr capabilities• Future focus areas include AI enablement, cybersecurity compliance, and higher-level application frameworks• Companies should invest in device tree training first, then start with evaluation boards to assess portability benefits
SummaryIn this episode of the Embedded Frontier Podcast, Jacob Beningo dives into modernizing embedded software architecture—the second step in his seven-step framework for building faster, smarter firmware. He explores why most legacy architectures turn into “giant balls of mud,” how tightly coupling software to hardware holds teams back, and the four architectural dimensions you must consider: characteristics, principles, decisions, and structure.Jacob also shares controversial yet practical perspectives, including his philosophy that “there is no hardware, only data,” and why data—not hardware—should dictate design. From architectural decision records (ADRs) to adopting a top-down approach with the 4C model, this episode provides actionable insights for designing scalable, maintainable, and future-ready embedded systems.TakeawaysAvoid spaghetti code: Emergent architectures rarely scale; intentional design upfront is critical.Define architecture characteristics: Select 3–7 key qualities (e.g., modularity, scalability, robustness) to guide decisions.Establish design principles: Adopt philosophies like “data dictates design” and “there is no hardware, only data.”Capture architectural decisions: Use ADRs to record trade-offs and prevent wasted rework.Think top-down: Use the 4C model (Context → Containers → Components → Classes) instead of bottom-up hardware-first design.Abstract hardware: Decouple hardware details from application logic for scalability and reusability.Prepare for change: Modern IoT and ML-driven systems demand flexible, forward-looking architectures.Keywordsembedded systems, software architecture, modularity, scalability, ADR, design principles, data dictates design, hardware abstraction, IoT, DevOps, test-driven development, modern firmware, top-down design, containers, 4C model
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32:35
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32:35
#016 - Modern Build Systems with Kyle Dando
In this episode of the Embedded Frontier podcast, Jacob Beningo and Kyle Dando from NXP discuss the modernization of embedded software and firmware, focusing on the MCU Xpresso SDK. They explore the significant changes made to the SDK, including the adoption of CMake and KConfig, the introduction of West for managing software repositories, and the overall impact on developer workflows. The conversation also covers the migration path for existing users and future trends in embedded software development, emphasizing the importance of user feedback in shaping the SDK's evolution.Takeaways- Modern build systems are essential for embedded software development.- The MCU Xpresso SDK packages low-level drivers and middleware for ease of use.- Accessibility improvements were a primary focus in SDK modernization.- CMake was adopted for its universal build capabilities and customer demand.- West allows for efficient management of software from multiple repositories.- KConfig simplifies project configuration and dependency management.- Developers can choose between command line and IDE workflows.- Migration to the new SDK is designed to minimize disruption for users.- Future trends include support for new operating systems and ecosystems.- User feedback is vital for continuous improvement of the SDK.
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#015 - Modernizing Embedded Systems: Step #1 - Overhauling Your Build System
In this episode of the Embedded Frontier Podcast, Jacob Beningo discusses the importance of modernizing build systems in embedded software development. He outlines a seven-step framework for developing faster and smarter firmware, focusing on the need to overhaul build systems to keep pace with contemporary development practices. The conversation covers containerization, the adoption of tools like CMake and West, and the integration of AI technologies to enhance build processes and ensure flexibility and scalability in software development.Takeaways- Overhauling your build system is crucial for modern development.- Build systems must adapt to contemporary software practices.- Containerization provides a consistent build environment.- CMake offers flexibility and modularity in builds.- West helps manage multiple repositories effectively.- Modern build systems should integrate with CI/CD workflows.- Flexibility in workflows enhances developer productivity.- AI can assist in transitioning to modern build systems.- Scalability is essential for long-term software projects.- A modern build system reduces stress and increases efficiency.Keywordsembedded systems, build system, DevOps, CMake, containerization, software development, AI, firmware, modern architecture, CI/CD
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#014 - Modernizing Embedded Systems: A 7-Step Framework
SummaryIn this episode of the Embedded Frontier Podcast, Jacob Beningo introduces a comprehensive framework for modernizing embedded systems development. He discusses the importance of adapting to modern techniques in firmware development, emphasizing the need for a shift in workflows, architectures, and tools. The episode outlines a seven-step process that includes modernizing build systems, improving software architecture, implementing DevOps practices, embracing test-driven development, leveraging simulation, adopting AI and machine learning, and establishing a metrics scoreboard to track progress. Each step is designed to help teams develop faster and smarter firmware, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective embedded systems development.TakeawaysModernizing firmware is essential for efficient development.The seven-step modernization framework includes build systems, architecture, DevOps, testing, simulation, AI, and metrics.Modern build systems should support various developer tools and environments.Software architecture must be scalable and flexible, separating application code from hardware.DevOps is crucial for improving collaboration and speeding up development cycles.Testing should be prioritized, with an emphasis on test-driven development (TDD).Simulation can help developers test application code without hardware dependencies.AI and machine learning can enhance both on-chip processing and development workflows.Metrics are essential for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.The framework aims to help teams deliver better products on time and within budget.Keywordsembedded systems, firmware development, modernization framework, build systems, DevOps, test-driven development, simulation, AI, machine learning, metrics
The Embedded Frontier, hosted by embedded systems expert Jacob Beningo, is a cutting-edge podcast dedicated to exploring the rapidly evolving world of embedded software and embedded system trends. Each episode delves into the latest technological advancements, industry standards, and innovative strategies that are shaping the future of embedded systems. Jacob Beningo, with his deep industry knowledge and experience, guides listeners through complex topics, making them accessible for both seasoned developers and newcomers alike.This podcast serves as an educational platform, offering insights, interviews, and discussions with leading experts and innovators in the field. Listeners can expect to gain valuable knowledge on how to modernize their embedded software, implement best practices, and stay ahead in this dynamic and critical sector of technology. Whether you're an embedded software developer, a systems engineer, or simply a tech enthusiast, "The Embedded Frontier" is your go-to source for staying updated and inspired in the world of embedded systems. Join Jacob Beningo as he navigates the intricate and fascinating landscape of embedded technologies, providing a unique blend of technical expertise, industry updates, and practical advice.
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