Embedded software engineers create programs for specialized hardware components called embedded systems, which act like computers within computers. They determine the smallest number of drivers needed to operate the device and produce technical documentation for other engineers to use.
Computer users are probably most familiar with the software that runs on their operating systems. However, many of them are not as experienced with the software that governs the operation of certain sophisticated hardware components. These components are programmed by professionals called embedded software engineers.
Hardware components that perform specific and specialized functions are called embedded systems. They act like computers within computers, with their own processors and memory. Embedded systems collect data from specific hardware components, execute their programming, and then transmit data to other pieces of hardware in the machine. The function of an embedded system can be as complex as converting data from internal antennas into a data format that the rest of the device can use, or as simple as transmitting specific signals when activated by a button. An embedded software engineer creates the programs that run these devices.
The job of an embedded software engineer is similar to software engineers who create programs for desktop computers. The source code for converting data from one format to another is the same on a personal computer as it is on an embedded system. Where the embedded software engineer’s job differs is to add additional code so that the program runs on the specialized piece of hardware that acts as the embedded system.
The operating systems on which desktop applications run include a variety of driver software. This is appropriate for these systems because of the variety of hardware that can be on the computer and the software that a user can run. Embedded systems are self-contained and only run a single program. For this reason, the programmer only needs to load a limited number of drivers and the program itself into the limited memory of the device. The embedded software engineer’s job often includes determining the smallest number of drivers the program will need to operate the embedded device.
After an embedded software engineer finishes programming a device, their work must be documented. Embedded systems are never used alone, but as part of a larger project. To make use of the device, other engineers need to know information such as:
what data is the embedded system expecting
what data format your programming is expecting
how the device will react to different inputs
the format of the data that the device will output
This information is included in the technical documentation that embedded software engineers produce themselves, usually in the form of a manual. Sometimes technical writers, not real engineers, create these manuals from notes provided by software engineers. Having documentation to refer to is invaluable for users.
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