We are creatures of habit, whether we like it or not. The tendency to become accustomed to a routine or process seems universal as one of the ties that bind us as humans. However, when things are efficient and easy, we close the door to all other opportunities. That could be a mistake that prevents us from realizing our full potential.
Take a build system, for example. This is a set of software tools that automates the process of converting source code into executable programs, libraries, or other software components. Build systems are a vital part of software development and can help improve productivity, consistency, and reliability.
An article on build systems reminds me of getting into a routine with blinders.
In his first of a bi-monthly series of articles entitled Modern Embedded Insights, Jacob Beningo, an expert in embedded system programming, reminds us that most developers start their projects with the MCU’s Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Yes, it is quick and efficient, and likely, these tools are very familiar to the people who are building with vendor-provided tooling. However, some efficiencies and benefits can be acquired for those who dare to shed old, accustomed ways. In “CMake the Most ofSoftware Development” Jacob reminds us that adopting a new methodology can modernize any developer’s build system and open the door to greater possibilities for scaling, linking libraries, debugging, and more.
Also, regarding this issue, we offer a review of System-on-Module technology in our Datasheet feature. Check out the newest offerings from Aaeon, Axiomtek, BeagleBoard, Nvidia, Toradex, Variscite, SolidRun, and even the latest Raspberry Pi CM5. Processors steal the spotlight of many SoMs, and here, you’ll find representatives from Intel, AMD, NXP, Broadcom, and Nvidia. Not only are SoMs key in the growth of IoT technology, but they are particularly crucial in adopting Industry 4.0 standards.
Does anyone remember the Frogger arcade game? Returning author Chris Cantrell not only remembers it, but he brings the distinctive sounds of the game back to life with a classic AY-3-8910 sound chip and a Raspberry PI with a Zilog Z80 emulator in his project, “Reviving Frogger’s Retro Audio with a Programmable Sound Generator.”
The latest Bluetooth Low Energy Audio specifications are about to revolutionize audio technology like Stereo sound did in the 1950s. Nick Hunn makes his Circuit Cellar author debut by describing the new audio middleware and isochronous channels. The article is Introducing Bluetooth LE Audio, the first part of a two-part series.
In the second installment of a two-part series, Raul Torrico delves into the world of micro Lisp or “µLisp” and shows how to extend its capabilities by adding custom functions to enable the interface with ultrasonic sensors and control servo motors.
Wolfgang Matthes concludes a three-part series of articles on basic pulse circuits to provide digital designers with insight for processing asynchronous signals from sensors and level translators. The great thing about this series is how Wolfgang assembled knowledge for his subject that was not found in textbooks or coursework. He gleaned information from the supporting literature accompanying numerous MCUs, microprocessors, and FPGAs and presented it in a casual yet scholarly fashion.
All of the selections above were carefully curated for you, our devoted readers, so that you can enhance your skills and knowledge for your endeavors. If you have a project you are working on and think it may help others, we’d love to hear about it. It could lead to the next insightful Circuit Cellar article, enticing developers to dispense with old habits and adopt new ones.
Issue Table of Contents can be found here,
as articles are made available online they will be linked.
PUBLISHED IN CIRCUIT CELLAR MAGAZINE • February #415 – Get a PDF of the issue
Tom Murphy has been plying his trade as a technology journalist for more than 25 years, first as an editor/writer/reporter and then as a communications professional. He has earned industry recognition for both journalistic endeavors and technology campaigns. Before joining Circuit Cellar magazine as editor-in-chief (2024), Tom wrote tech briefs, newsletters, blogs, press releases, white papers, and technical articles for numerous clients, primarily in the semiconductor industry. His introduction into the industry came as an editor for “Electronic News” covering microprocessor companies, the fabless semiconductor phenomena, communication chips, and many others. When he’s not tapping away at the keyboard, Tom learns Dungeons and Dragons terminology from his 10-year-old daughter and walks his bulldog (slowly) around the block.
