By Manish Kothari, Silicon Labs
Embedded technology is quietly transforming our lives. This invisible layer of microcontrollers and sensors is driving sometimes life-saving–progress across various sectors, including healthcare, smart city infrastructure, smart home technologies, electric vehicles, and more.
As embedded systems advance, they hold the promise of improving our quality of life and addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges. To continue to deliver transformative innovations, developers and industry stakeholders must stay ahead of the curve and understand the evolving landscape of embedded systems. Collaboration and lifelong learning are key to advancements.
Recognizing this need, Silicon Labs is hosting its 5th annual Works With event, a premier developers conference that offers presentations, networking, and continuing education across several embedded topics. By staying adaptable, curious, and united, we will be able to unlock the full potential of embedded technology.
Navigating the Evolving Embedded Landscape
So, why do developers in the embedded space often feel like they are in a constant race to keep up? Well, embedded systems themselves are becoming increasingly complex due to the integration of advanced features like AI/ML capabilities, higher processing power demands, and the need to support a wider array of connectivity options. Furthermore, the relentless pace of technological advancements places immense pressure on companies to innovate and deliver innovative products within shrinking development cycles.
Looking ahead, professionals can anticipate significant shifts in several key areas of embedded systems:
The IoT Revolution
The Internet of Things (IoT) has dramatically enhanced device connectivity. Embedded systems are now integral to a vast network of interconnected devices. Professionals must familiarize themselves with multiple wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth Low Energy, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Thread. At Works With 2024, you will gain valuable insights into the latest wireless technologies and learn how to integrate them seamlessly into your embedded designs.
Security: Staying Ahead of Increasing Threat
As the number of connected devices increases, so do security concerns about breaches, attacks, and privacy. Embedded systems often manage sensitive data and can even control critical infrastructure like city utilities–the consequences of inadequate security can be catastrophic. In the future, embedded professionals must see the integration of robust security measures as mission critical.
Silicon Labs has always been a leader in security, and Secure Vault™ exemplifies this commitment. This industry-leading suite of security features, including encryption, authentication, and secure boot processes, safeguards IoT devices against escalating threats, significantly reducing the risk of breaches, intellectual property theft, and revenue loss. At Works With 2024, you will witness firsthand how Silicon Labs’ unmatched security capabilities can be tailored to meet your specific development needs.
AI and ML Integration
AI and machine learning are enhancing intelligent automation and decision-making capabilities in embedded devices. In manufacturing, for instance, AI-powered embedded systems are optimizing production lines by predicting equipment failures and automatically adjusting processes for maximum efficiency.
The rapid advancement of embedded systems demands that professionals expand their skill sets beyond traditional hardware and software to encompass AI, machine learning, data analysis, and edge computing. In an increasingly competitive job market, those who fail to adapt risk obsolescence. Upskilling in these domains is now essential for career growth and driving innovation in the embedded space. At Works With 2024, attendees will have hands-on opportunities to explore AI and machine learning applications in IoT and embedded systems.
Edge Computing: Moving Closer to the Source
Edge computing revolutionizes data processing by bringing computation closer to the data source rather than relying solely on distant cloud servers. This approach improves system resilience, reduces latency, and enhances data privacy. For example, in a smart city traffic management system, edge devices at intersections can analyze camera feeds to adjust traffic lights in real-time without sending sensitive video data to the cloud.
As edge computing grows, embedded developers must adapt to new challenges. They need to master efficient local data processing, optimize power usage for battery-operated devices, and implement AI algorithms directly on edge devices. Works With 2024 offers expert-led sessions on optimizing embedded systems for edge computing.
Education as a Strategic Investment
Continuing education is not just a tool to enhance your career — it is a strategic necessity. By staying updated on the latest trends and technologies, professionals can confidently take on complex projects, lead innovative initiatives, and drive groundbreaking advancements that shape industries. Join a global community of learners this year at Silicon Labs’ Works With 2024. This year’s event is expanding its global reach with in-person events in:
- San Jose, USA– September 19, 2024
- Hyderabad, India – October 17, 2024
- Shanghai, China – October 24, 2024
Do not miss the chance to enhance your skills and advance your career! Register for Works With 2024 today.
Manish Kothari is senior vice president of software development at Silicon Labs
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