[Embeded.com] Embedded multitasking with small MCUs

Keith Curtis posted an article about embedded multitasking on small microcontrollers over on embedded.com.

Multitasking is the ability to execute multiple separate tasks in a fashion that is seemingly simultaneous. Note the phrase "seemingly simultaneous." Short of a multiple processor system, there is no way to make a single processor execute multiple tasks at the same time. However, there is a way to create a system that seems to execute multiple tasks at the same time.

Check it out. It's a good read if you're interested in embedded multitasking.

Embedded.com - Padding and rearranging structure members

Dan Saks, president of Saks & Associates, posted a good article about Padding and rearranging structure members in C. Questions about struct padding seem to pop up on the Microchip web forums from time to time. This article explains it well. Read the article @ Embedded.com.

Embedded.com - Six Rules for Writing Clean Code

Matt Gordon from Micriµm posted a good article with some tips for writing clean C code. Read his article @ Embedded.com - Six Rules for Writing Clean Code

Microsoft demos Project Natal for Xbox 360 at E3

At their press briefing at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, Microsoft introduced Project Natal. Project Natal brings controller-free gaming and entertainment using a 3D camera to the Xbox 360. The rumors, which started when Microsoft purchased 3DV Systems, are true.


A tech-demo game that uses real 3D physics.


A story of a boy and his 3D camera...


Microsoft's full concept video

First videos of the Zune HD posted

Gizmodo and CNET posted short videos showing Microsoft's Zune HD in action. It basically looks like a faster iPod Touch with a great OLED screen. The screen looks pretty fantastic.

Zune HD Video Hands On from Gizmodo on Vimeo.

Wired.com: Homebrewed CPU Is a Beautiful Mess of Wires

Steve Chamberlin, a Belmont, California, videogame developer by day, set out on a quest to custom design and build his own 8-bit computer. The homebrew CPU would be called Big Mess of Wires or BMOW. Despite its name, it is a painstakingly created work of art.

Read the full story on Wired.com: Homebrewed CPU Is a Beautiful Mess of Wires