Teaching embedded systems using a modular-approach microcontroller training kit

In this article, the author presents a new microcontroller training kit for teaching computer engineering in the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrotechnology) programme (BEngTech) at Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) in Christchurch, New Zealand. The microcontroller training kit was designed and developed in-house with a modular approach. Central to the training kit is the ATmega128 microcontroller, which is an industry relevant microcontroller and has intensive on-chip peripherals, a large amount of flash memory and static RAM, as well as free development software support. The training kit has a built-in JTAG debugger, a USB interface, simple human interfaces and expansion ports so that it can be used not only for teaching in class but also for students' design projects. Modules used to teach computer engineering courses of the BEngTech using the onboard features are discussed. The modules to be used for teaching embedded operating systems are also outlined.