#024 - Simulating Embedded Systems

In this episode, Jacob explores simulation for embedded systems as the seventh step in modernizing embedded development. He discusses functional simulation, on-chip simulation, and software architecture simulation, demonstrating how proper abstraction enables developers to validate code before hardware is available. Jacob provides a practical demonstration of simulating a push button module with debouncing algorithms, showing how modern software architecture can dramatically improve embedded system development workflows. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Simulation for Embedded Systems 01:46 Traditional vs Modern Embedded Development Approaches 02:32 Benefits of Decoupled Software Architecture 04:04 Understanding Functional Simulation 05:01 Push Button Module Example and Debouncing 08:19 Live Demo: Push Button Simulation Interface 12:01 Types of Simulation: On-Chip vs Functional 13:40 On-Chip Simulation Tools: QEMU and Renode 15:01 Software Architecture Simulation and State Machines 16:59 Getting Started with Simulation in Legacy Systems 18:40 Practical Implementation Tips and Socket Communication 20:39 Embedded Online Conference Announcement Key Takeaways: • Functional simulation allows embedded developers to validate code without physical hardware by abstracting low-level hardware dependencies • Modern embedded architecture should decouple application code from hardware using zero-cost or low-cost abstractions • Push button debouncing serves as an excellent example for learning simulation techniques that every embedded engineer can relate to • On-chip simulation tools like QEMU and Renode can simulate processor-level instructions but may be incomplete for microcontroller peripherals • State machine simulation enables visual validation of system behavior before code deployment • AI tools can now rapidly generate simulation code, making functional simulation more accessible than ever • Socket communication provides deterministic and fast data exchange for functional simulation environments • Start simple with side projects like weather stations or button modules to learn simulation techniques • Legacy systems can be gradually refactored to support simulation by decoupling high-risk areas from hardware dependencies • Simulation enables faster development cycles and reduces dependency on hardware availability during early development phases