Embedded Electronics and SMART Design
Building on foundational skills, this credential introduces learners to intelligent systems. Students design, fabricate, and program their own electronic devices while documenting workflows and debugging challenges in real-time.
Anticipated Time to Credential 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875

Course Overview
Electronics Design & Production
Select and use software for circuit board design
Demonstrate workflows used in circuit board design
Describe the process of tool-path generation, milling, stuffing, de-bugging and programming
Demonstrate correct workflows and identify areas for improvement if required
Embedded Programming
Implement programming protocols
Input and Output Devices
Demonstrate workflows used in sensing something with input device(s) and MCU board
Demonstrate workflows used in controlling an output device(s) with MCU board you have designed

What You'll Explore
Key Competencies
PCB Design & Fabrication
Embedded Systems Programming
Input/Output Device Integration
Workflow Analysis & Troubleshooting
Circuit Debugging and Optimization
Technical Documentation & Reflection
Performance Indicators
Create and fabricate a functioning PCB using CAM workflows
Implement embedded programming to drive interactive systems
Integrate sensors and actuators with custom microcontroller boards
Produce design documentation using digital tools and reflection protocols
Skills You'll Learn
Mechanical and Electrical CAD
Designing machine components, 3D assemblies, create custom parts optimized for 3d printing, laser cutting or cnc milling.
Custom PCB design using EDA (Electronic Design Automation) modular electronics, and testing and documentation of wiring, pin assignments, and testing procedures to ensure safe and reliable operation
Microcontroller integration and debugging
System integration - electrical layouts for microcontrollers, motor drivers, batteries, and electronic safety features
Embedded programming fundamentals
Microcontroller architecture (AVR, ARM, Cortex) and understanding of memory organization and peripheral capabilities.
Understanding the difference between microcontroller and microprocessor and how architecture impacts power consumption and application suitability.
Datasheet literacy - Extracting key details for programming and interfacing
Programming Protocols - Using appropriate methods to upload code
Programming Environments - Working with Arduino IDE, MicroPython, PlatformIO, etc.
Interaction & Communication - Making the board sense, act, and communicate
Debugging and documentation - Systematically finding and fixing code/hardware issues and Recording code, decisions, and results for learning and assessment.
Networking
Network Architecture - Understanding and designing network layouts
Protocol Implementation - Using UART, I2C, SPI, and other protocols for device communication
Node Design and Addressing - Creating networked devices with unique addresses
Communication Programming - Writing code for message exchange and handling
Troubleshooting - Diagnosing and fixing network issues
Security Awareness - Understanding basic network security concepts
Performance Optimization - Improving speed and reliability of communication