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PG-DESD in General at Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mohali
Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is General at Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mohali Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar?
This Post Graduate Diploma in Embedded System Design (PG-DESD) program at C-DAC Mohali focuses on comprehensive training in embedded hardware and software co-design. It addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s rapidly expanding embedded systems and IoT sectors, covering everything from microcontroller programming to real-time operating systems and embedded Linux. The program''''s practical, industry-aligned curriculum makes it a key differentiator.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Electronics, Electrical, Computer Science, or IT engineering who are eager to enter the embedded systems industry. It also caters to working professionals looking to upskill in cutting-edge embedded technologies or career changers aiming to transition into high-demand roles like firmware development, IoT engineering, or hardware-software integration.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths as Embedded Software Engineers, Firmware Developers, IoT Engineers, and Device Driver Developers across various sectors like automotive, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA. The program aligns well with industry certifications and provides a solid foundation for growth in product development and R&D roles within Indian and global companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master C & Data Structures Fundamentals- (First 8 Weeks)
Dedicate significant time to mastering C programming, focusing on pointers, memory management, and implementing data structures from scratch. This forms the bedrock for all subsequent embedded programming.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, CodeChef, LeetCode (for C problems)
Career Connection
Strong C and DS skills are paramount for any embedded software role, influencing problem-solving abilities in technical interviews and project development.
Deep Dive into Linux & OS Concepts- (First 8 Weeks)
Beyond theoretical knowledge, actively practice Linux commands, shell scripting, and understand operating system concepts like processes, threads, and IPC. Familiarize yourself with basic Linux system calls.
Tools & Resources
Linux Man Pages, Online Linux tutorials, Bash scripting guides
Career Connection
Proficiency in Linux is crucial for embedded Linux development, device driver creation, and efficient debugging, all highly valued in the Indian embedded industry.
Collaborative Learning & Peer Discussion- (Throughout the Program)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, solve programming challenges together, and review each other''''s code. Teaching others solidifies your own understanding.
Tools & Resources
Discord/WhatsApp groups, Collaborative whiteboards
Career Connection
Enhances teamwork skills, vital for professional environments, and provides diverse perspectives on problem-solving, preparing for real-world project challenges.
Intermediate Stage
Hands-on with Microcontroller Development Boards- (Weeks 9-16)
Actively engage with development kits (e.g., STM32, ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico) provided or recommended. Implement small projects involving GPIO, timers, UART, SPI, and I2C to control sensors and actuators.
Tools & Resources
STM32CubeIDE, Arduino IDE (for quick prototyping), Oscilloscope and Logic Analyzer for debugging
Career Connection
Practical experience is highly valued; employers look for candidates who can demonstrate actual hardware interaction and debugging skills, directly leading to better placement opportunities.
Master Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) Internals- (Weeks 9-16)
Go beyond basic RTOS usage. Understand task scheduling algorithms, implement inter-task communication and synchronization primitives (semaphores, mutexes, message queues) using FreeRTOS or uC/OS-II.
Tools & Resources
FreeRTOS documentation, uC/OS-II guides, RTOS simulation tools
Career Connection
Expertise in RTOS is a core skill for embedded systems engineers, especially in critical applications, making you a strong candidate for advanced embedded roles in India''''s automotive and industrial sectors.
Participate in Mini-Projects & Hackathons- (Weeks 9-16)
Take initiative to build mini-projects during weekends or participate in internal/external hackathons focusing on embedded or IoT applications. This provides practical problem-solving experience and a portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Online component stores, C-DAC''''s lab facilities, Hackathon platforms
Career Connection
Showcases initiative, practical skills, and ability to work under pressure, which are highly attractive to recruiters for both internships and full-time positions.
Advanced Stage
Develop Robust Embedded Linux Applications- (Weeks 17-24)
Focus on building and customizing embedded Linux systems using tools like Buildroot or Yocto. Learn to compile kernels, develop user-space applications, and create device drivers for custom hardware.
Tools & Resources
Buildroot/Yocto documentation, Cross-compilation toolchains, QEMU for emulation
Career Connection
Embedded Linux is prevalent in advanced IoT and network devices. This skill is critical for roles in product development and system integration, commanding higher salary packages.
Design & Implement End-to-End IoT Solutions- (Weeks 17-24)
Undertake a comprehensive IoT project that integrates sensors, leverages IoT protocols (MQTT, CoAP), connects to cloud platforms (AWS IoT, Azure IoT), and potentially includes a mobile or web interface.
Tools & Resources
Cloud platform SDKs, MQTT brokers, IoT development boards (e.g., ESP32)
Career Connection
IoT is a booming sector in India. Demonstrating full-stack IoT project capability makes you highly employable for IoT architect, solution developer, and smart device engineering roles.
Intensive Placement Preparation & Portfolio Building- (Weeks 17-24)
Refine your final project into a robust portfolio piece with clear documentation and code. Practice technical interview questions, mock interviews, and aptitude tests focusing on embedded concepts, C, RTOS, and debugging scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Resume builders, LinkedIn, Interview preparation platforms (e.g., InterviewBit)
Career Connection
Directly enhances your chances of securing placements by showcasing your capabilities effectively and performing confidently in recruitment processes for top embedded companies in India.
