From 2011, the ISO C++ standard included a library of concurrency (multi-threading) features. However, this library made the implicit assumption that your C++ code would be executing in a hosted environment – Linux, Windows or similar. 

For many embedded systems this is not the case - they are based around real-time operating systems (RTOS), which often have different characteristics or fewer features. In such situations the C++ standard concurrency library is unlikely to be available, or suitable.

This course is designed to introduce C++ developers to the concepts of concurrent, multi-threaded design within the constraints on an embedded environment. The focus of the course is developing the core features of an object-oriented RTOS abstraction layer using proven design patterns and idioms.

Many of the concepts developed in the course are present in the C++ standard library, so attendees will gain a unique insight into those features. This should significantly improve their programming should they transition to a hosted environment.

This three day course will provide practical, hands-on experience with the core real-time design patterns, uniquely addressing their suitability to a non-PC programming environment.

Course objectives:

• To understand what design patterns are and how the language of patterns can aid designers and developers to be more productive
• To develop your understanding of concurrency and how it relates to program design
• To understand the issues with multi-threaded programs and how patterns can help to circumvent these issues.
• To provide practical experience of building concurrent, multi-threaded systems.

Pre-requisites:

• Good knowledge of C++ 
• An understanding of Object-Oriented principles
• An understanding of multi-threading is useful, but not essential
• UML class modelling is useful, but not essential

Who should attend:

The course is aimed at software developers, designers, and architects who are looking to deploy C++ in a multi-tasking, embedded environment.

It is also suitable for those wishing to improve their object-oriented design skills.

Duration:

• Three days

Course materials:

• Delegate handbook

Course workshop:

The course exercises are designed to reinforce the attendee's knowledge of concurrency, C++ and design patterns.

Attendees will construct a set of framework of concurrency patterns and apply those to an embedded target application. 

Course exercises are designed to build upon each other, resulting in a complete, operating, multi-threaded application. The attendees will be required to code, download and debug using PC-based development tools.