Top Embedded ICs to Learn in 2023

Hey readers! Welcome to the engineering world where we are talking about the embedded system today. Integrated circuits are the most important unit of embedded technology. With the advancement in the working of integrated systems, new designs and technologies are being introduced to embedded circuits. The explosion of the new varieties of ICs is ample evidence of the promising future of embedded engineering. Semiconductor vendors are unleashing new variety in the market. 

For engineers and workers, this is a challenge to get command of the latest trends. Even getting updated in multiple trending ICs is difficult but we have made your research easy. This article has the list of top embedded integrated circuits that are in trend and you must know them. Not only the introduction but having a grip on the working and applications of these ICs can boost your skill.

Top Embedded ICs to Learn in 2023

As we venture into 2023, we can see a great list of several types of ICs capture our attention. These ICs are responsible for the advanced technologies of IoT, smart devices, and the real-time grand projects of embedded systems. We have been noticing this trend for decades and it seems it is not going to change. Here is a list of some of the most advanced and useful embedded ICs that are making the embedded world the most efficient.

Intel Quark Series

The Intel Quark series has revolutionary results in the series of microcontrollers. This is the family of ICs that are introduced for low power, integrated security and scalable architecture. The low-power processors are made for wearable devices and the Internet of Things. IoT. Here are some of the main features that are discussed by Intel itself:

Low Power Consumption

It is one of the most attractive features of this series. This makes this series ideal for battery-powered devices. It is the reason, IoT designers found it useful to add in the circuit. To make it suitable for wearable devices, the size of this series is kept very small.

Integrated Security

It is another feature that is making it popular for the latest devices. These make sure your connectivity with the other devices is secure. In this way, it becomes easy for the user to manage the devices that are using the Intel Quark Series. 

Scalability

The more scalable a device is, the easier and more cost-efficient it is. This series helps you to have devices with broad categories of fields. The reusable software can easily scale up and down the working and it makes it more efficient than the previous series introduced by the manufacturers. 

Microcontrollers/Microprocessors

The demand for skills in microcontrollers and microprocessors seems to be a never-ending trend. Therefore, we recommend you add these to your list of learning. Here are two most trendy microcontrollers:

Arduino

 It is the best option for beginners as well as for those who want to have a grip on the most efficient and user-friendly microcontrollers. This is the best way to have a grip on the micro-controllers and these are not only trending today but are working in the field for years. 

Arduino has various sensors and other devices that collectively, make the system of microcontrollers more efficient and creative. The actuators are the backbone of multiple machines and system and it is called “mover” in a controlled system.

Raspberry Pi

If you love versatility and ease of use in one design then you must learn Raspberry Pi. It has extensive uses in the field of embedded systems and can be used for a variety of projects. This is the most popular board used in the learning projects of embedded students and we recommend you to use the latest technologies and versions to work with this electronic component . This is a perfect combination of software and hardware that makes the work quick and efficient. 

Micro-Chip PIC32

This series has the perfect balance of performance and versatile features. These are the first priority of different types of embedded systems and learning these is useful for a long period of time. The good thing is, these have the scope in almost every field whether you are choosing the simple usage of an LED or making yourself ready for the complex industrial fields. Here are some important ICs to learn here:

PIC Microcontrollers

These are known for their versatile design and easy working. These microcontrollers are made with microchip technology. This family includes the microcontrollers such as PIC 16, PIC18, PIC32, etc. 

AVR Microcontroller

This was introduced by Atmel which is now part of Microchip. The main reason behind their popularity is their simple and easy structure. Moreover, it can be used in the Arduino and the combined working has the scope in the market so we recommend you learn this.

ARM Cortex-M

The ARM Cortex-M is one of the most popular IC that you must learn in this era. This 32-bit RISC family works under the licence of ARM. The scope of this IC is not just limited to the latest technology but has been used in millions of devices that customers are using now. It means it has the scope for years and learning it is profitable. 

The designing process was carried out by keeping embedded applications in mind. Moreover, the small footprint and easy-to-understand design help the learners to get the concepts easily. 

Wireless Connectivity ICs

Wireless connectivity has made the world far different from the previous era. This has made connectivity and communication the easiest and less time taking. As we venture to 2023, we can see these ICS have not only transformed the devices into a better and more convenient way to communicate and perform a hundred operations. 

Learning the wireless connectivity ICs is recommended because of the revolution in the devices these have made. From working with useful fields like IoT to the wireless communication of heavy devices, these ICs are the backbone for a large variety of systems. Some of these are listed below:

Bluetooth Connectivity ICs

I believe the Bluetooth process is well-known to all of us and learning these ICs is fruitful because of the trend of using these ICs now not only in mobile but the devices such as speakers, headsets, keyboards, etc. Some popular ICs include Nordic nRF52840 and the Qualcomm QCC5100.

Zigbee ICs

The ICs are used for the connectivity between the low-power wireless network such as bulbs and door locks. Home automation is one of the most demanding skills in embedded systems and learning Zingbee ICs like Texas Instruments CC2530 is highly recommended.

NFC ICs

This is another IC used for communication. These are used for short-term communications but learning these in the modern era is important because this is used for contactless recognition. For instance, these ICs are used for contactless payments, transferring of data, and the authentication processes (such as the registration of SIM). The important IC to learn is STMicroelectronics M24LR04.

Renesas RX Series

The Renesas RX series is a popular series in embedded systems and a large community is learning these because these have scope in present and future as well. It is a 32-bit microcontroller and their performance and low power consumption make them ideal for multiple devices.

  • It has four products in line named RX100, RX200, RX600, and RX700. All of these have the same working mechanism but the features like power consumption, performance, results, etc are different. Some key features of these series are given here:
  • These have a 32-bit CPU that on average has a clock speed of 200MHz.
  • They provide a wide range of peripheral devices connection. So if someone learns these ICs, there are more chances to get hired.
  • It is suitable for a large variety of operating systems including Linux and RTOS. So, learners from different operating systems are learning these.

Why Learning Embedded ICs Useful in 2023?

The topic of embedded system ICs is not new. We have been looking at the applications of embedded systems in multiple types of devices. As technology is advancing day by day, people are working more on these skills. The automation in homes and offices is mainly depending upon the embedded system. The working of IoT has enhanced the scale of popularity of these ICs. Here are some other important points that justify the importance of learning these skills in 2023.

Integration of Devices

Embedded ICs are the backbone of today's technology. The advancement in technology has enhanced the demand for devices like automatic door openers, smartphones, etc. Thus, people are using devices made with ICs in homes, offices, industries, and everywhere. The scope of these ICs is never ensign, therefore, learning these is helpful for a secure future. 

IoT connectivity with ICs

This is the time of artificial intelligence and IoT and the most suitable time to learn the ICs. People are moving towards home automation and the connection of non-living things together. Physically, this can happen with the help of ICs related to Bluetooth functioning and other such features that make communication possible. 

Endless Opportunities

For those who are seeking a skill that will help them for a long time, ICs are perfect. The versatile working of ICs in several fields makes it perfect for beginners as well as for experts who want to get a grip on multiple fields. 

The industries such as healthcare, home automation, office management, robotics, and aerospace rely on the embedded system. This makes it a useful field.

Versatility in the System

People in other fields are learning the ICs to have more creative devices and useful output. The ICs provide versatility in the work that is up to mark. It has been noticed that ICs have replaced multiple devices and tools because these provide easy working at a low cost. This versatility resulted in a large number of experts as well as students dealing with their devices according to their needs.

Cost Efficient Learning

The basic feature of a device is its cost and efficiency. With the help of ICs, learning is not only less time taking but the power consumption and lower cost make it perfect for students and people with low budgets to learn.

In many cases, heavy and costly devices are being replaced with simple and easy-to-use ICs. These not only help to learn faster but are efficient in the results as well.

High Demand Skill

The points we have just discussed have made the ICs a hot topic not only for industries and offices but also for the common people. These are highly demanding skills that industries require and if someone is an expert in these, there are a lot of chances to get hired. As new technologies are emerging in the market, people are now moving towards the working of ICs and the demand for skills is high.

So, this was all for today, we have seen different types of ICS that are useful to learn in 2023. Some of these were the latest and some had the trend for years. This is the evidence that skills in ICs are always helpful and one must work on it. Students in the fields like computer engineering, electrical or electronic engineering, and mechatronics are more likely to be attracted to these ICs. One must have the idea about multiple ICs and then, choose the most suitable. We recommend you make a list of these according to your interest and then learn all these according to your profession. 

There are multiple sources of learning these skills and the internet is the most efficient in this regard. The computer itself is made with the ICs and the internet is full of its advantages and training. So I hope your path is clear now. You know the whole list of some important skills that you must have and the applications and working of all these ICs is shared with you in detail. Make sure you comment about the first IC you have chosen for learning and we will try to provide the whole data for your work.

Raspberry Pi 2 Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are having fun. In today's tutorial, I am going to share a new Proteus library for Raspberry Pi 2. We have already shared the Proteus Libraries of other Raspberry Pi modules i.e. Raspberry Pi 4, 3, Pico etc. and we discussed that these Pi modules won't be able to read the Python code. We have just designed the external appearance of these modules and you can use these Pi modules for circuit designing and project presentations.

We have also added the Arduino firmware in these boards, which is just to provide a bit of interaction with these boards. We have given these boards an unofficial title "Arduino Pi".

So, let's have a look at How to simulate Raspberry Pi in Proteus:

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Raspberry Pi 2 Library for Proteus

  • First of all, we need to download the Proteus Library zip file of Raspberry Pi 2, by clicking the below button:

Raspberry Pi 2 Library for Proteus

Adding Proteus Library Files

  • Extract files from the Proteus Library zip file and open the folder named "Proteus Library Files".
  • Here you will find two library files, named:
    • RaspberryPi2TEP.IDX
    • RaspberryPi2TEP.LIB
  • We need to place these files in the Library folder of the Proteus software, normally at C > Program Files > Labcenter Electronics > Proteus 8 > Library.

Note: For a better understanding, you should read How to Add a New Library File in Proteus.

Raspberry Pi 2 in Proteus

  • We have successfully added the library files in the last step. So, now is the time to open your Proteus software.
  • Open the Components search box by clicking the "P" button in Proteus and here make a search for Raspberry Pi 2.
  • If you have added the library correctly, you will get the below result:

  • Add it to your project by double-clicking on it.
  • Place the Raspberry Pi 2 modules in your Proteus workspace, as shown in the below figure:

Note: Its design is quite similar to that of Raspberry Pi 3, although we added the name to differentiate between the two.

Raspberry Pi 2 Simulation in Proteus

As mentioned above, this Pi board won't be able to read the Python code. So, we have added the Arduino firmware in it to make it a bit more interactive. So, let's blink an LED with this Raspberry Pi 2 module in Proteus:

LED with Raspberry Pi 2

  • Before working on the code, let's first design the circuit diagram and as you can see in the below figure, I have connected an LED along with a resistor to Pin # 13 of the Pi board:

  • In the properties panel of LED, change the Model Type of LED from analog to digital.

Code for Raspberry Pi 2

  • As it has Arduino firmware, so we need to get its hex file.
  • So, open Arduino IDE and from Examples, open the LED blink code.
  • Compile the code and get its hex file, as shown in the below figure:

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • Open the Properties PAnel of Raspberry Pi 2 and here you will find an option "Program File".
  • Paste the Hex File location in its text box, as shown in the below figure:

  • Click Ok to close the Properties PAnel and now its time to run the Raspberry Pi 2 simulation:

Raspberry Pi 2 Simulation Results

  • Click the Play Button in Proteus to run the simulation and if everything goes fine, the LED will start blinking, as shown in the below figure:

So, that was all for today. I hope you have enjoyed these Raspberry Pi simulated modules. IF have any questions, please ask in the comments. Thanks for reading.

How to Start Your Own Business Using Your Engineering Skills?

Starting an engineering business can be lucrative. In addition to the financial rewards that come through profits, you can enjoy unmatched flexibility and the satisfaction of helping others solve their problems.

However, establishing an engineering startup is no easy fit. You will likely experience challenges, including unrealistic expectations, fierce competition, financial management problems, and more. Fortunately, with adequate planning and smart decision-making, you can avoid these huddles and set up your new venture for success.

To help you get started, here are eight steps for setting up a business using your engineering skills and background. 

  1. Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan

A business plan is a roadmap for your investment, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. This document is so important that investors and financiers ask for it before funding you.

When developing a business plan , define your business's mission, vision, and goals. It would also be vital to describe your products or services in detail, emphasizing how your engineering skills will drive innovation and quality. Additionally, outline your pricing strategy, sales and marketing approach, and distribution channels.

Financial projections are a critical component of your business plan. So, estimate your startup costs, operating expenses, and projected revenue for the first few years. Remember to be realistic in your projections, and consider seeking advice from financial experts to ensure accuracy.

  1. Conduct a Thorough Market Research

Before diving headfirst into entrepreneurship, you must conduct comprehensive market research. This step will provide invaluable insights into the industry landscape, customer preferences, and potential competitors. It will also allow you to locate gaps you can address with your engineering skills, giving you a competitive edge.

To do market research, you can use various tools, including telephone interviews, social media campaigns, surveys, and questionnaires. The results you get will help you choose the final design of your products or services and how to position them.

In your research, it is also vital to consider up-to-date engineering trends and technological advancements. This will help you adapt your engineering skills to meet evolving customer needs.

  1. Identify Your Legal Structure and Get Insurance

Choosing the right legal structure for your business is a crucial step that impacts your liability, taxes, and operations. Common business models include sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability company (LLC). As an engineer, opting for an LLC is often advantageous as it protects personal liability while allowing flexibility in management and taxation.

After identifying an ideal legal structure, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is essential to operate your business legally. Depending on your location and industry, requirements may vary, so research and comply with local regulations.

Insurance is another critical consideration. Engineering-related businesses may face unique risks, and having appropriate insurance coverage can protect you from unforeseen challenges. Professional liability insurance, better known as errors and omissions insurance, can safeguard you from potential claims arising from your engineering advice or services.

  1. Create Your LLC Operating Agreement

Creating an operating agreement is essential if you've chosen to establish an LLC. This document outlines the ownership structure and operating procedures of the company. 

Your operating agreement should clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each member and how decisions will be made and conflicts resolved. Addressing these aspects upfront can prevent potential conflicts and help maintain a smooth operation.

Consider creating a free LLC operating agreement using verified online templates or resources to cut costs. These resources allow you to customize the agreement to reflect your business's specific details, such as ownership structure, management roles, and decision-making processes.

  1. Secure Funding

Securing adequate funding is pivotal in transforming your engineering dreams into reality. So, consider various funding options such as personal savings, loans, grants, venture capital, or angel investors.

If you plan to target investors or get financing from a lending institution, craft a compelling pitch highlighting how your engineering skills give your business a competitive edge. Investors will be keen to understand how your technical proficiency translates into a unique value proposition and a robust market presence.

It would help if you convinced financiers with your research-backed market potential, revenue streams, and expansion strategies, which instills confidence in your business's future.

  1. Select the Right Tools and Software

Technology is pivotal in streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency in the digital age. Without the right tools, you will struggle to meet deadlines, satisfy clients, and achieve your productivity goals, affecting your profits and growth. 

Therefore, leverage your engineering background to select the right tools and software that align with your business's objectives. Whether it's CAD software for product design, project management tools, or analytics platforms, ensure your choices optimize your workflow and productivity.

Additionally, explore emerging technologies that can give your business a competitive edge. For instance, harness the power of artificial intelligence or the Internet of Things to innovate and offer cutting-edge solutions to your customers.

  1. Develop Your Brand Identity

The type of brand you choose could make or break your engineering startup. Ideally, you need a brand that embodies innovation, reliability, and excellence. It should be built on a compelling story about your engineering journey, the problems you aim to solve, and your intended impact.

An excellent brand should feature a visually appealing logo, a color palette that resonates with your values, and a consistent brand voice across all communication channels. You could also infuse your engineering expertise into your branding by showcasing technical prowess through engaging content and demonstrations.

  1. Market Your New Company

The success of your engineering-driven business hinges on effective marketing. Therefore, develop a strategic marketing campaign to showcase the value of your products or services. This plan should consider both traditional and digital marketing channels.

Ideally, consider utilizing your technical expertise to create insightful content, such as blog posts, videos, or webinars, that educates and engages your target audience. In addition, collaborate with industry influencers or thought leaders to amplify your reach and credibility.

Social media has become a vital platform for meeting clients. So, harness its power to share your engineering insights, success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business.

Conclusion

Starting a business rooted in your engineering skills is an exciting endeavor with immense potential. By meticulously following these eight steps, you'll be well-equipped to transform your technical understanding into a thriving and impactful venture.

Most importantly, remember that running a business requires working smart, commitment, and perseverance, so embrace the challenges, fuel your passion, and let your entrepreneurial journey begin.

5 Steps to Propel Your Chemical Engineering Career

Chemical engineering combines experimental and natural sciences like physics and chemistry and other sciences like microbiology, biochemistry, biology, together with mathematics economics all of these to develop, transform and manage the industrial processes that run raw materials into valuable products. Chemical engineers are in high demand increasingly daily as the world’s technology advances. In this post we are going to look at the basic requirements for a chemical engineering career.

1. Solid Educational Background

The requirements for a chemical engineering degree in tertiary institutions like American International College is normally a very strong educational background in mathematics and chemistry whereas knowledge in the other sciences will be an added advantage. At the time of your undergraduate studies try to pay attention to getting fundamental knowledge in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, process control and fluid mechanics.

Besides this you might want to consider pursuing an in-depth degree which will highly improve your skills and even open more ways to a great chemical engineering career.

2. Gain More Hands-on Experience Through Internships

After having a strong educational background you then move into the real world and see things on site how they actually work. This is where internships come in for a chemical engineering student in chemical engineering companies and research institutions by providing valuable work experience to a student by working on real projects in these industries.

3. Develop and Nurture Skills

As a chemical engineering student , you should develop new skills for your career. If you take time and develop on your soft skills like teamwork, creativity, communication, problem solving, adaptability and work ethic then this will likely propel you to a better position on landing a job. Make sure that you keep yourself updated with chemical engineering tools and software.

4. Stay Updated in Industry Trends

Chemical engineering is a very diverse field of engineering. Sometimes back, people used to call chemical engineering a universal engineering career for the reason of its technical and scientific mastery being so broad and covering a wide range of science branches. As a chemical engineer it is absolutely necessary in the current times to be updated with new technology.

It pays as a chemical engineer to stay ahead of the job market and learn new skills that will be of great help in the future. Chemical engineering is in the middle of many different industry categories and since each of these categories keep on changing to keep up with the state of the art, regulatory policies and stakeholders, chemical engineers have to stay in the lead with the field.

5. Acquire Professional Relationships and Networks

Networking in any career department is vital for any individual. Landing a good paying job is not easy even sometimes with papers and knowledge and skills. When you get the chance, talk to different types of professionals and form meaningful relationships with them during your studies and even your internship. Building this professional network will guide you to finding a good job.

Endnote

As a chemical engineering student you need patience, unending education and dedication for you to enjoy the road to your achievement. Take advantage of challenges and learn from them, don’t hurry processes and go with the flow. 

Raspberry Pi Zero W Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. As we are working on Raspberry Pi libraries for Proteus these days, so today, I am going to share another awesome library i.e. Raspberry Pi Zero W Libary for Proteus. We have already shared the Raspberry Pi Pico, Raspberry Pi 3 & Raspberry Pi 4 Libraries for Proteus, I hope you have already installed these libraries.

We have only designed the exterior look of this module, it won't be able to read the Python code. You can use this module to design circuit diagrams of your projects or to demonstrate your project in the presentation. Although, just for fun, we have added the Arduino UNO firmware to it. So, you can add the Arduino hex file in it. Something is better than nothing.

So, let's install the Proteus Library and simulate Raspberry Pi Zero:

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Raspberry Pi Zero W Library for Proteus

  • First of all, we need to download the Proteus Library zip file of Raspberry Pi Zero, by clicking the below button:

Raspberry Pi Zero W Library for Proteus

Adding Proteus Library Files

  • Extract the content of the Proteus Library zip file.
  • Here, you will find a folder named "Proteus Library Files".
  • Open this folder and you will find below two library files in it:
    • RaspberryPiZeroTEP.IDX
    • RaspberryPiZeroTEP.LIB
  • Place these two files in the Library folder of your Proteus software.
  • You will find the Library folder at this location: C > ProgramFiles > LabCenter Electronics > Proteus8.

Note: For a better understanding, you should read How to Add a New Library File in Proteus.

Raspberry Pi 4 in Proteus

  • So, after adding the Raspberry Pi Zero Library Files, open your Proteus software and if it's already open, then restart it so that it could index components from the newly-added Library.
  • Now, open the Proteus components search box by clicking the "P" button.
  • Here, make a search for Raspberry Pi Zero and you will get the below results:
  • Now, double-click on this Raspberry Pi Zero module to add it in your project list.
  • Place the Raspberry Pi Zero W module in your Proteus workspace and it will look like this:

  • We have tried to keep it small in size so that other components could easily add up in the workspace.

Raspberry Pi Zero Simulation in Proteus

As I mentioned earlier, this RPi Zero module in Proteus won't be able to read the Python code. So, just for fun, we have added the Arduino firmware inside. I know it's not that helpful but that's all we have right now. I hope we will design the real Raspberry Pi Zero simulator one day. So, let's add the Hex File in Raspberry Pi Zero W:

LED with Raspberry Pi Zero W

  • Now, let's design a simple circuit, as shown in the below figure:

  • I have simply attached an LED along with a resistor with Pin # 13 of the Raspberry Pi Zero W.
  • The LED attached has an analog Model Type and we need to change it to Digital, so open its Properties Panel by double-clicking on it.
  • In the Properties Panel, you will find "Model Type", change it from Analog to Digital.

Code for Raspberry Pi Zero

Let's clear this thing up one last time, we can't add Python code in this simulated Raspberry Pi Zero, so just to have some interaction, we have added the Arduino Hex file in it. So, we need to get the Arduino hex file.

  • So, open the Arduino IDE and open its LED Blink example from the File > Examples > Builtin.
  • Compile the code to get its HEX file, which we will add in the Raspberry Pi Zero.

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • Double-click Raspberry Pi zero in the Proteus software, to open its Properties Panel.
  • In the Program Files Section, paste the Hex File Location, as shown in the below figure:

Raspberry Pi Zero Simulation Results

  • Now let's run the simulation to get the results.
  • So, click on the RUN button of Proteus software and if everything worked fine, you will get similar results:

So, that was all for today. I hope you will enjoy this Raspberry Pi Zero W Library for Proteus. If having any difficulty, ask in the comments. Thanks for reading. Have a good day.

Raspberry Pi 4 Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. Today, I am going to share the Raspberry Pi 4 Library for Proteus. In our previous tutorial, we shared the Raspberry Pi 3 Library for Proteus and as we mentioned in that tutorial, these Raspberry Pi libraries will have dummy modules i.e. We have just designed the exterior but these boards won't be able to read the Python code. Although just for fun, we have added the Arduino firmware in these boards, so we can upload the Arduino code in it. As the legends say, something is better than nothing. We have given these boards an unofficial name "Arduino Pi".

You can use these Pi boards to design your circuit diagram or can also use it in your presentation/demonstration of your projects. I hope you will enjoy these simulated Raspberry Pi boards. Before going forward, let's first have a brief overview of Raspberry Pi 4:

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What is Raspberry Pi 4?

  • Raspberry Pi 4 is an advanced microcontroller board, designed by Raspberry Pi Foundation and is used in IoT and embedded projects.
  • You should have a look at this Raspberry Pi 4 Pinout to get an in-depth understanding of this board.

So, now let's have a look at How to add this Proteus library and simulate Raspberry Pi 4 in Proteus.

Raspberry Pi 4 Library for Proteus

  • First of all, we need to download the Proteus Library zip files by clicking the below button:

Raspberry Pi 4 Library for Proteus

Adding Proteus Library Files

  • Extract the files from the Proteus Library zip file and open the folder named "Proteus Library Files".
  • You will find two library files in this folder, named:
    • RaspberryPi4TEP.IDX
    • RaspberryPi4TEP.LIB
  • Place these two files in the Library folder of your Proteus software. You will find the Library folder at this location: C > ProgramFiles > LabCenter Electronics > Proteus8.
  • If you are having difficulty finding the Library folder, you should read How to Add a New Library File in Proteus.
  • An LED Blinking Proteus Simulation of Raspberry Pi 4 is also present in this zip file.

Raspberry Pi 4 in Proteus

  • After adding the Library Files, open your Proteus software and if it's already open then restart it, so that it could read the components from the newly added library.
  • Click on the "Pick from Libraries(P)" button in Proteus and make a search for Raspberry Pi 4.
  • If you have added the RPi4 library correctly, you will get the below result:

  • Double-click on this Rpi4 board to add it to your project's components list.
  • Place the Raspberry Pi 4 board in the Proteus workspace and it will look like this:

  • I hope you will enjoy its look, as we put real effort into designing it and as you can see it resembles a real RPi4 board.

Raspberry Pi 4 Simulation in Proteus

Now let's design the Simulation of Raspberry Pi 4 in Proteus. As I mentioned earlier, we can't feed Python code to this RPi4 board. So, we have added the Arduino firmware to it. Thus, we need to upload the Arduino hex file in it. Let's attach an LED with Raspberry Pi 4:

LED with Raspberry Pi 4

  • I have attached a Green LED along with a resistor to Pin # 13 of the Raspberry Pi 4, as shown in the below figure:

  • Double-click on the LED to open its Properties panel, here you will find the "Model Type".
  • Change the Model Type from Analog to Digital, otherwise, it won't glow.

Code for Raspberry Pi 4

  • As it's important, so let's clear it up one more time. The Pi board won't read the Python code, instead, it will work on Arduino Code.
  • So, open your Arduino IDE and get the LED Blinking Code from the Examples.
  • Select Arduino UNO in the Tools > Boards section.
  • Compile the code and get its hex file, as shown in the below figure:

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • We need to add the hex file in Raspberry Pi 4, so double-click it to open its Properties Panel.
  • In the Properties Panel, you will find a section named "Program Files".
  • Add the hex file location in this Program Files section, as shown in the below figure:

Raspberry Pi 4 Simulation Results

  • Now, let's run the simulation of Raspberry Pi 4 by clicking the RUN button in Proteus.
  • If everything's correct, the LED will start blinking, as shown in the below figure:

So, that was all for today. I hope you will enjoy this Raspberry Pi 4 Library for Proteus and will use it in your projects. Let me know your feedback. Have a good day. Take care!!!

Raspberry Pi 3 Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing great. In today's tutorial, I am going to share a new Proteus Library for Raspberry Pi 3 module. In my previous tutorial, I shared the Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus. Similar to Pico Library, this RPi3 LIbrary won't operate on the Python code. We have just designed the front look to use in the circuit design. Although, we can upload Arduino code to these simulated Raspberry Pi boards.

This Raspberry Pi Proteus Library will have only the Raspberry Pi 3 board in it. We will design the other Pi boards soon. So, let's have a look at How to simulate Raspberry Pi in Proteus:

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Raspberry Pi 3 Library for Proteus

First of all, we need to download the Raspberry Pi library files, by clicking the below button:

Raspberry Pi 3 Library for Proteus

Adding Proteus Library Files

  • This Proteus Library zip file will have a folder in it, named "Proteus Library Files".
  • Open this folder and you will find these two files in it:
    • RaspberryPi3TEP.IDX
    • RaspberryPi3TEP.LIB
  • Next, we need to add these library files to the library folder of the Proteus software. So open C > PRogramin Files > Labcenter Electronics > Proteus 8 > Library folder and copy-paste these files into it.
  • This zip file also has a Proteus simulation of the Raspberry Pi 3 board.

Note: Look at How to add a new Library in Proteus 8, if you are having any issues.

Raspberry Pi 3 in Proteus

  • After adding the library files, open your Proteus software or restart it, if it's already open.
  • In the components search box, make a search for Raspberry Pi 3 and you will get the below results:

  • So double-click on this Raspberry Pi board to add it to your project.
  • Place the Pi board in your Proteus workspace, as shown in the below figure:

Simulate Raspberry Pi 3 in Proteus

Now we are going to simulate this Raspberry Pi 3 board in Proteus. We will attach a simple LED to one of its pins. As I told earlier, we have just designed the exterior of this board. It won't read the Python code. We can use it to design circuit diagrams for our project. But just for fun, we have added the Arduino firmware to it. So, we can upload the Arduino hex file in this Pi board.

LED with Raspberry Pi 3

  • I have connected a simple LED with resistance on Pin # 13 of the Pi board, as shown in the below figure:

  • In the Properties panel of LED, change the Model Type from analog to digital, otherwise, it won't work.

Code for Raspberry Pi 3

  • As I mentioned earlier, this Rpi3 board in Proteus won't read the Python code. We can only upload Arduino code in it.
  • So, I am going to use the LED Blinking code and will select Arduino UNO in the boards' section, as shown in the below figure:

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • In order to add this hex file, double-click on the Raspberry Pi 3 board to open its Properties Panel.
  • In the Properties Panel, you will find a section named Program Files.
  • Paste the hex file location in the Program Files section and click OK to close the panel.

Now, let's run our simulation to get the results:

Raspberry Pi 3 Simulation Results

  • So, now let's run the simulation and you will see that the LED on the board will start blinking, as shown in the below figure:

So, that was all for today. I hope you will use this Raspberry Pi Library to design your projects. In the next tutorial, I will share the Raspberry Pi 4 Proteus Library. Till then, take care. Have fun!!!

An Engineer's Guide to Intellectual Property Laws In 2023

An engineer's job description involves a great deal of creating things based on the knowledge learned in school and the course of their career. These creations qualify as creations of the mind which is the very definition of intellectual property and thus protectable under IP laws. 

So, understanding your rights as an engineer is critical to your profitability. This guide highlights types of intellectual property that have a huge significance to an engineer, such as patent, industrial design, trademark, copyright, and trade secret protections.

If you are venturing into a career as an engineer or have been in it but never paid attention to your IP rights, this will be an excellent read for you.

Understanding IP Laws

IP laws are designed to protect creations of the mind, also called intellectual property. The reasoning behind creating IP laws is to grant innovators and creators exclusive rights to their work, allowing them to commercialize and profit from them. 

Image source: https://pixabay.com/photos/engineer-engineering-teamwork-4941342/  

Also, the law creates avenues for rights holders to hold violators of their rights accountable for their actions, for example, by seeking compensation for damages suffered from their violation. Below is a breakdown of the important IP you need to know as an engineer. If you have intellectual property law questions, an expert Canadian IP attorney from Heer Law will gladly answer your questions and help you navigate a problem if you have one.

Patents

Patents are arguably the most important type of IP protection for engineers. Patents cover new innovations in the engineering industry , including construction methods, materials, building processes, new fuel technologies, new engines, etc. 

For an idea to qualify for patenting, it must meet the eligibility criteria. First, the idea must be novel, meaning it must be new in the world and never be revealed at any place before the date of filing for registration. The idea must also be practical for two other engineers in the same field. 

Lastly, the patent applicant must provide the registering entity with detailed information about the idea so that another person skilled in the trade can replicate the idea following the information provided. The government holds this information in confidentiality until the expiry of the patent protection period, which is 20 years from the filing date for registration.

Industrial Design Protections

Industrial design protection, also known as design patterns in some countries, is a form of patent protection covering a product's nonfunctional aspect. In other words, it covers a product's ornamental or aesthetic aspects, such as shape, ornamentation, texture, feel, etc. 

For a design to qualify for industrial design protection under Canadian intellectual property law, the design must be new and not closely resemble an existing one, must apply to a specific product, and has to be nonfunctional in the sense that it doesn't affect the performance and efficiency of a product in any way. 

Industrial design protections can apply to creations like car design, building design, interior design, and décor and are enforceable for 15 years from the filing date for registration. 

Trademark Protections

A trademark is a word, symbol, logo, slogan, hashtag, or combination of any distinguishing goods and services in the market. As an engineer, your work may not be so much about selling products but for other services, in which case trademarking your name and your business name and brand becomes critical for marketing purposes and building brand reputation. 

Trademarks can apply on a first-to-use basis, meaning you can claim ownership of a trademark even if it's not registered; however, proving ownership can be challenging. The best practice is to register your trademarks with the relevant authority. 

Upon successful registration, trademark protections run for ten years from the registration date. However, the term is renewable upon payment of a service fee, allowing businesses and individuals to claim ownership of a trademark indefinitely.

Copyright Protections

Copyright protections apply to creative work such as pictures, art, text, music, and video. Engineering involves creating some designs from scratch, so you need to make sketches called draw plans as the foundation of your creations. Those sketches and plans are protected under intellectual property law. 

In most countries, including Canada , the author of creative work owns its copyright by default unless they expressly transfer them to their clients. Therefore it's important to ensure that the terms of your contract are clear to avoid IP rights conflict with clients. 

Copyright protections last for the author's lifetime and 70 years after death. If more than one author was involved, the 70 years starts running after the death of the last surviving author. If a business owns the copyright, it lasts 95 years from publication or 120 years from the date of creation, whichever is shorter.

Trade Secrets

Trade secrets are, just as the name suggests, confidential information that gives a business a competitive edge in the market. A trade secret for engineers can include the formula for creating a specific building material, processes involved, or business plans. 

An entity does not need to register trade secrets to make them enforceable. However, doing so makes proving that information is a protected trade secret easier. Under the law, a trade secret can only be recognized as enforceable if the right holder makes reasonable efforts at protecting it, for example, by limiting access to good information, having employees sign non-disclosure agreements, and using passwords in encryption to secure the information. Also, trade secret protections run indefinitely if the rights holder keeps it confidential. 

Significance of IP Registration

IP laws guarantee a person or entity's right to profit from their creation through exclusivity. For example, patent rights give the rights holder the exclusive right to sell their innovation, allowing them to set the prices for their innovation without fearing being undercut. Where the demand exceeds demand, they can sell rights to other entities expanding their income streams. So if for no other reason, the money factor should motivate you to secure your rights.

The assurance of profit-making from inventions and creations has been critical in spurring innovation. Investors want to be sure they get value for money, and the only way of getting assurances is guaranteed exclusivity to profit from inventions and creations. Some experts feel that IP laws, in a way, hinder innovations because it prevents others from building upon what has been already created, but the gains achieved through the laws outway the drawbacks by far. 

Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are fine. In today's tutorial, I am going to share the Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus. It's a dummy library, we have just designed the display. We can't add the Python Code to it, but we can make it work with Arduino code. A mixture of Arduino and Raspberry Pi, I have given it an unofficial name "Arduino Pi". It's better to have something than nothing. You can design circuit diagrams using this library and can also demonstrate your project in presentations by designing simulations.

So, let's have a look at How to simulate Raspberry Pi Pico by adding this Proteus Library:

Where To Buy?
No.ComponentsDistributorLink To Buy
1Battery 12VAmazonBuy Now
2LEDsAmazonBuy Now
3ResistorAmazonBuy Now
4Raspberry Pi PicoAmazonBuy Now

Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus

  • First of all, we need to download the zip file of Proteus Library for Raspberry Pi Pico, by clicking the below button:

Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus

Adding Proteus Library Files

  • The Proteus zip file will have a folder named "Proteus Library File".
  • Open this folder and you will get two library files, named:
    • RaspberryPiPicoTEP.IDX
    • Raspberry PiPicoTEP.LIB
  • Now, open the Library folder of your Proteus software, normally present at C > Program Files > LabCenter Electronics > Proteus 8, and copy-paste these 2 library files into it.
  • The zip file of Proteus Library will also have a simulation of Raspberry Pi Pico in it.

Note: Look at How to add a new Library in Proteus 8, if you are having any issues.

Raspberry Pi Pico in Proteus

  • After adding the library files, restart your Proteus software so that it could index the components of the newly added library.
  • Open the Proteus components section and make a search for "Raspberry Pi Pico".
  • If you have added the library correctly, you will get the below result:

  • So our Pico board is now available in the Proteus components list.
  • Double-click on the Pico board to add it to your project.
  • Close the components section and drag-&-drop the Pico board in the Proteus workspace, as shown in the below figure:

We have tried to keep it small in size so that other components could get more space.

Simulate Raspberry Pi Pico in Proteus

As I told earlier, we can't program this Pico board with Python, which is the actual programming language of this board. But just for fun, we have enabled it to read the Arduino code. Let's design a simple blink example to see how it works:

LED with Raspberry Pi Pico

  • First, we need to design a simple LED circuit in Proteus, as shown in the below figure:

  • Double-click on the LED to open its Properties panel and here, we need to change the Mode Type of LED from Analog to Digital.

Code for Raspberry Pi Pico

  • Let's mention it one more time(as it's important), we can't program this board with Python code. We can only upload the Arduino Code in it.
  • So, here's the LED blink code and as you can see in the below image, I have selected Arduino UNO.

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • Now, we need to add this hex file to the Pico board of Proteus.
  • So, double-click the Raspberry Pi Pico to open its Properties Panel.
  • In the Properties Panel, there's a section called Program File, add the Hex file location here, as shown in the below figure:

Now let's run our simulation to check the results:

Raspberry Pi Pico Simulation Results

  • If everything goes fine, the LED attached to the Pico board will start blinking, as shown below:

So, that was all for today. I hope you will enjoy this Raspberry Pi Pico Library for Proteus and will use it in your simulations. If you have any suggestions, use the below comment form. Thanks for reading. Take care!!!

ESP32 Library for Proteus

Hello friends, I hope you all are doing well. In today's tutorial, I am going to share a new Proteus Library of ESP32 embedded module. ESP32 is a microcontroller board used mostly in IoT projects. It's a successor of ESP8266 or NodeMCU. We have already shared the NodeMCU Library for Proteus and I hope you guys have enjoyed it.

Proteus software is not capable of handling WiFi or BLE technology, thus we can't implement these technologies in the ESP32 board. Though, you can use its input/output pins to interface embedded sensors and modules. You can also use it to design the Circuit Diagram of your Project.

So, let's have a look at How to simulate ESP32 board in Proteus:

Where To Buy?
No.ComponentsDistributorLink To Buy
1Battery 12VAmazonBuy Now
2LEDsAmazonBuy Now
3ResistorAmazonBuy Now
4ESP32AmazonBuy Now

ESP32 Library for Proteus

  • First of all, download the zip file of Proteus Library for ESP32 board, by clicking the below button:

ESP32 Library for Proteus

Add Proteus Library Files

  • In this Proteus Library zip file, open the folder named "Proteus Library File".
  • In this folder, you will find two library files, named:
    • ESP32TEP.IDX
    • ESP32TEP.LIB
  • We need to add these library files in the Library folder of the Proteus software.

Note: Look at How to add new Library in Proteus 8, if you don't know already.

ESP32 in Proteus

  • Now open your Proteus software and if it's already open, then restart it. (it's necessary for Proteus to read the library files)
  • Open the components Library of Proteus and search for "ESP32".
  • If everything's fine, you will get the ESP32 board in the results section, as shown in the below figure:

  • We need to double-click on this module to add it in our project.
  • Now drag and drop the ESP32 board in the Proteus workspace, as shown in the below figure:

  • We have tried our best to keep it as small as we can, so that you get more space for other components.

So, using this ESP32 Library, we have added the board in Proteus software. Now, let's simulate ESP32 in Proteus:

Simulate ESP32 in Proteus

We are going to simulate the ESP32 board by running Blink LED Example. As I told earlier, we can't add WiFi and BLE capabilities in this simulated ESP32 board. So, we are going to select Arduino UNO in the board section of Arduino IDE to get the hex file.

LED with ESP32

  • First of all, design this simple circuit, where we have placed an LED at Pin # 13 of ESP32, as shown in the below figure:

  • In the Properties Panel of this LED, change the Model Type from Analog to Digital.

Code For ESP32

  • Open Arduino IDE and in the File>Examples, open the Blink LED example code, given below:

  • As you can see in the above figure, I have selected Arduino UNO in the Tools>Boards section of Arduino IDE.
  • Now compile the Arduino Code and get its hex file. Read this resource: How to Get the Hex File from Arduino IDE.

Add Hex File in Proteus

  • Open the Properties Panel of the ESP32 board by double-clicking on it in the Proteus software.
  • In the Program File section of the Properties Panel, add the hex file location, as shown in the below figure:

  • Now, close the Properties Panel by clicking the OK Button.

ESP32 Simulation Results

  • If you did no mistake, you will get results as shown in the below figure:

So, that was all for today. I hope you have enjoyed simulating ESP32 board in Proteus software. If you have any questions, ask in the comments. Till the next tutorial, take care. Have fun !!!

Syed Zain Nasir

I am Syed Zain Nasir, the founder of <a href=https://www.TheEngineeringProjects.com/>The Engineering Projects</a> (TEP). I am a programmer since 2009 before that I just search things, make small projects and now I am sharing my knowledge through this platform.I also work as a freelancer and did many projects related to programming and electrical circuitry. <a href=https://plus.google.com/+SyedZainNasir/>My Google Profile+</a>

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Syed Zain Nasir