Summary of Hardware in Embedded Rust

Introduction to Embedded Hardware

Embedded Rust programming involves working directly with hardware components. This section introduces key concepts and practices for understanding and interacting with hardware in Rust.

Key Concepts

1. Microcontrollers

• Definition: Small computers on a single integrated circuit, used in embedded systems.
• Functionality: They control devices, process data, and manage inputs/outputs.

2. Registers

• Definition: Small storage locations in microcontrollers used for controlling hardware and reading data.
• Example: You might manipulate registers to turn on an LED or read a sensor value.

3. Memory Map

• Definition: A layout that shows how memory is organized in a microcontroller, including where registers and peripherals are located.
• Importance: Understanding the memory map is crucial for accessing hardware correctly.

4. Peripheral Devices

• Definition: External components that a microcontroller interacts with, such as sensors, motors, or communication interfaces.
• Examples:
  • GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output): Used for reading switches or controlling LEDs.
  • UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter): Used for serial communication.

Working with Hardware

Setting Up the Environment

To start programming embedded devices, you need a development environment configured for Rust and appropriate hardware support.

Example: Blinking an LED

• Objective: A common beginner project is to make an LED blink.
• Steps:
  • Access GPIO Register: Configure the GPIO pin connected to the LED.
  • Toggle the LED: Write a loop that turns the LED on and off at intervals.

Code Snippet Example

// Pseudo-code for blinking an LED
while true {
    gpio_pin.set_high();  // Turn LED on
    delay();              // Wait
    gpio_pin.set_low();   // Turn LED off
    delay();              // Wait
}

Conclusion

Understanding hardware is essential for embedded Rust programming. Key concepts like microcontrollers, registers, and peripherals form the foundation for building applications that interact with the physical world. Starting with simple projects, like blinking an LED, helps beginners grasp these concepts effectively.