Input / output device programming??

[elbarto_87]

Hi,

I am interested in how device programming works in regards to how do you go about writing a program that takes readings from a device attached to a serial port or something to that effect.

Is there a generic device that I could use to learn a little about device programming. The majority of programming I have done is in Matlab, VBA and Python mainly for structural engineering purposes so I haven't had the need to learn any language like C or C++ which beings me to my next question, qhat language do you need to work with these devices?

I haven't found much info on the net yet because I dont know exactly what I should be looking for. Am I correct in calling this "device programming"?

Thanks, Elbarto

[doojsdad]

Might want to try something along these lines, for getting down and dirty and really understanding how device drivers work:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&hs=4VR&q=ece+microcontroller+programming+lab+site%3A.edu

Look for labs interfacing LCDs or keypads.

[elbarto_87]

Thanks for the reply.

I found this site: http://www.csupomona.edu/~myin/ece341.html particularly interesting. The course introduction mentions useing C to interface with the device and also the use of assembly. Realistically, what prior knowledge is required to attempt a course like this? Do you need to have a strong background in C and computer science?

On a slightly separate note, is it possible to take a device that digitally measures temperature and connect it to your computer (or controller?) to log temperature readings over a period of time? I have no real need for such a device, but it is the process behind it that I find intriguing.


Thanks, Elbarto