An affectionate missive on the essence of embedded systems, penned by V. Hunter Adams
Cornell University Electrical Engineering Lecturer V. Hunter Adams expresses his ardent affection for embedded systems engineering in a forty-three minute video, crafted as a testament to his love for the discipline. In this video, Adams attempts to elucidate the reasons behind his passion for engineering and, more specifically, embedded systems engineering.
Adams argues that engineering serves as a gateway to learn about various other fields, comparing the constraints of embedded systems to those of poetry. He believes that embedded systems represent a suitable level of complexity where one can easily comprehend a complete system's details. This complexity, coupled with their integration with the physical world via sensors and actuators, afford a deeper appreciation for physics and nature.
According to the enlightening video, embedded systems engineering offers a more engaging alternative to traditional and arguably more confined programming environments like Windows. Adams recalls early experiences with less appealing technologies, such as COBOL and Windows CE, which motivated him to seek out more captivating and adaptable platforms. He reminisces about his pioneering work on early Linux-based embedded systems, a time when open-source solutions were met with skepticism in the industry.
Adams' video serves as a heartfelt manifesto for why embedded systems engineering holds such significance in his life. By combining creativity, practical application, open-minded learning, and a rich blend of technologies, embedded systems engineering offers tremendous potential for innovation across various disciplines, resembling the approach of hackers who embrace creative problem-solving outside of traditional engineering boundaries.
Adams' communication style is akin to the late Carl Sagan's, renowned for his clarity and eloquence in explaining complex scientific concepts to the general public. His submission to the tips line was applauded by [Bunchabits] as a potential game-changer for the image of embedded systems, much like Sagan's work revolutionized public understanding of physics and astronomy.
For those intrigued by this philosophical exploration, an assortment of seminal articles on hacking and philosophy, dating back to 2013, awaits on our website. Titles include "Hacking And Philosophy: An Introduction," "The Mentor's Manifesto," "Hacker Crackdown: Part 1," "Part II," "Part III," "Part IV," "Future Tech And Upgrading Your Brain," and "Surveillance State." These pieces, still as relevant today as they were over a decade ago, may pique your curiosity and further satiate your intellectual cravings.
We extend our gratitude to [Bunchabits] for bringing this engaging video to our attention.
Embedded systems engineering, as elucidated by Adams, encompasses a unique blend of technology and creativity, similar to hackers who transcend traditional engineering boundaries for innovative problem-solving. Given the integration of sensors and actuators in embedded systems, there exists a potential for these systems to be a target for hacking, highlighting the need for education and self-development in this area.
Adams' video serves as a call to action for learners, encouraging them to explore open-source solutions and adaptable platforms in the world of technology, much like he did with Linux-based embedded systems. By engaging in education-and-self-development in the field, one can delve deeper into the intricacies of physics and nature, given the close relationship between embedded systems and the physical world.
