C++ in Embedded Systems

Go beyond C by applying modern C++ in embedded systems to enhance code readability, maintainability, and scalability

Free with your book: DRM-free PDF version + access to Packt's next-gen Reader*

Key Features

• Bridge the gap between C and modern C++ for embedded systems through practical examples
• Learn how to save memory and cut down on runtime computing using compile-time computation techniques
• Improve your software design skills by applying patterns to solve common problems in embedded systems using C++
• Purchase of the print or Kindle book includes a free PDF eBook

Book Description

Transitioning from C can be daunting, with concerns about performance overhead, added complexity, and unfamiliar tooling. Addressing these challenges, Amar Mahmutbegovic, an advocate for modern C++ in embedded development, shows how to harness zero-cost abstractions, compile-time checks, and modern C++ capabilities to preserve performance while achieving safer, cleaner code. This book bridges the gap between traditional C and advanced C++, helping you retain the efficiency C developers expect while unlocking safety and expressiveness of modern C++.

Starting with a modern development environment setup, including a Docker container for seamless example replication, you’ll overcome challenges of using the C++ standard library in memory-constrained settings and explore the Embedded Template Library (ETL) as an alternative. The book walks through essential C++ concepts before exploring advanced topics such as templates, strong typing, error handling, compile-time computation, and RAII. Through practical examples, you'll implement a sequencer, write a type-safe HAL, and apply patterns like Command, State, and Observer to solve embedded problems.

By the end, you’ll be able to apply modern C++ to develop robust, modular firmware with performance matching or exceeding hand-coded C solutions.

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What you will learn

• Debunk myths and misconceptions about using C++ in embedded systems
• Set up build automation tailored for C++ in constrained environments
• Leverage strong typing to improve type safety
• Apply modern C++ techniques, such as Resource Acquisition Is Initialization (RAII)
• Use Domain Specific Language (DSL) with a practical example using Boost SML
• Implement software development best practices, including the SOLID principle, in embedded development

Who this book is for

This book is for embedded developers who primarily use C and want to adopt a modern C++ approach. It introduces fundamental C++ concepts, making it suitable for beginners, while also assuming basic familiarity to fully leverage advanced features like compile-time computation. Even those with prior C++ experience will discover new ways to apply modern best practices to write more efficient and maintainable embedded applications.

Table of Contents

1. Debunking Common Myths about C++
2. Challenges in Embedded Systems with Limited Resources
3. Embedded C++ Ecosystem
4. Setting Up the Development Environment for a C++ Embedded Project
5. Classes – Building Blocks of C++ Applications
6. Beyond Classes – Fundamental C++ Concepts
7. Strengthening Firmware – Practical C++ Error Handling Methods
8. Building Generic and Reusable Code with Templates
9. Improving Type-Safety with Strong Types
10. Writing Expressive Code with Lambdas
11. Compile-Time Computation
12. Writing C++ HAL
13. Working with C Libraries
14. Enhancing Super-Loop with Sequencer

(N.B. Please use the Read Sample option to see further chapters)

Amar Mahmutbegović is the co-founder and head of engineering at Semblie, where he leads the utilization of modern C++ for firmware development. His expertise extends to working on BLE consumer devices and medical devices, delivering sophisticated solutions for a wide range of clients, including start-ups. Amar's dedication to innovation helps bring electronic product ideas to the world. Amar actively shares C++ benefits in the embedded community via blogs and LinkedIn. He also mentors young engineers, enhancing their skills in modern development practices. His work aims to make embedded systems more accessible, maintainable, and scalable, bridging the gap between traditional methods and modern efficiencies for developers worldwide.