The Embedded Frontier

Jacob Beningo

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.

  1. قبل ساعتين

    #017 - Modernizing Embedded Systems: Step #2 - Modernize Your Software Architecture

    Summary In 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. Takeaways Avoid 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. Keywords embedded 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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  2. ٧ مايو

    #014 - Modernizing Embedded Systems: A 7-Step Framework

    Summary In 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. Takeaways Modernizing 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. Keywords embedded systems, firmware development, modernization framework, build systems, DevOps, test-driven development, simulation, AI, machine learning, metrics

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  3. ١١ فبراير

    #011 - Mastering Embedded Systems: Lessons from 'The Embedded Project Cookbook' with John Taylor

    Summary In this conversation, Jacob Beningo interviews John Taylor about his extensive experience in embedded systems and his new book, 'The Embedded Project Cookbook.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, its target audience, and key themes such as the importance of building and testing software before hardware. John shares insights on challenges in requirements gathering, the use of a reference design, and the transition from C to C++ in embedded projects. They also explore future trends in the industry, particularly the impact of AI, and conclude with key takeaways from the book. Takeaways John Taylor has over 30 years of experience in embedded systems.The Embedded Project Cookbook was inspired by the need for better documentation and processes.The primary audience for the book includes software architects and tech leads.Building and testing software before hardware can save time and improve code quality.Requirements gathering is a critical yet challenging aspect of embedded systems development.The GM 6000 digital heat controller serves as a relatable reference design in the book.Source code and frameworks provided in the book can help developers bootstrap their projects.C++ offers advantages in type safety and encapsulation for embedded systems.AI is becoming part of embedded workflows, but its understanding of embedded systems is still limited.Quality in projects requires planning and discipline beyond just writing code.Keywords Embedded Systems, Embedded Project Cookbook, Software Development, Requirements Gathering, C++, AI in Embedded Systems, Software Architecture, Project Management, Hardware Development, John Taylor

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حول

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.