As an engineer who switches from mechanical to embedded, I have a deep understanding of the confusion faced by beginners. There are many branches in the embedded field, and choosing Linux or microcontroller in the early stage is indeed a tangled issue. I had been struggling with this issue for a long time and took many detours.
In fact, the reason why I can gain a foothold in the embedded field is largely due to the correct learning path choice. Because of this, I recently recorded it"STM32 Practical Practical Quick Start" (click to go directly)The course, through 15 practical projects, from the most basic GPIO to various sensor applications, teaches you step by step to learn embedded development. This course does not use automatic generation tools like CubeMX, but guides everyone to hand-written code to truly understand the underlying principles.
OK, now let's analyze this issue systematically to help you make wise choices.
1. The essential difference between embedded Linux and microcontroller
To answer this question, you first need to understand the essential differences between these two directions:
1.1 Hardware resource differences
The hardware resources difference between microcontrollers and embedded Linux is very significant:
Single chip computer system：
- The processor core is simple, and the main frequency is usually tens of MHz to hundreds of MHz.
- Memory (RAM) is extremely limited, ranging from a few KB to a few MB
- Storage space (Flash) from several KB to several MB
- Integrate various peripherals, such as GPIO, ADC, timer, PWM, etc.
- Very low power consumption, battery powered for long-term operation
- Good real-time performance, fast interrupt response
Embedded Linux system：
- The processor is complex, and the main frequency is usually from several hundred MHz to several GHz.
- The memory is at least tens of MB, usually from hundreds to several GB
- Large storage space, usually using SD card or eMMC, GB level
- Requires various external peripheral chips
- High power consumption and limited battery life
- Real-time is affected by operating system scheduling
I used to be in a project that needed to use both an STM32 microcontroller and an i.MX6 processor running Linux. STM32 is responsible for real-time control and data acquisition, while i.MX6 runs Linux systems to handle complex computing and network communications. This difference made me deeply understand their respective advantages and limitations.
1.2 Software complexity differences
The complexity of software architecture is also very different:
Single chip computer system：
- Usually bare metal programming or lightweight RTOS
- Code operates hardware registers directly
- The program structure is relatively simple, usually single-threaded or simple multi-tasking
- The development tool chain is simple, such as Keil, IAR and other IDEs
- Debugging directly, hardware behavior can be observed
Embedded Linux system：
- Complete operating system, including kernel, file system, system services, etc.
- Hardware access is abstracted through driver layer
- Supports complex mechanisms such as multi-process, multi-threading, and memory management
- The development environment is complex, involving cross-compilation, remote debugging, etc.
- Debugging is complex and involves system-level issues
In mine"STM32 Practical Quick Start"In the course, I specially designed a progressive learning path from bare metal to RTOS, so that beginners can gradually understand the complexity of embedded systems, which also lays a good foundation for subsequent learning of Linux.
1.3 Application scenario differences
Their respective application scenarios are also different:
Microcontroller suitable：
- Scenarios with high real-time control requirements
- Scenarios with extremely limited resources
- Cost-sensitive large batches
- Battery-powered equipment with low power consumption requirements
- Simple and dedicated equipment
Embedded Linux suitable：
- Scenarios that require complex human-computer interaction
- Devices that require powerful network capabilities
- Scenarios that need to deal with complex algorithms
- Multimedia processing, such as video, audio, etc.
- Systems that require flexible expansion
This difference is very obvious in actual projects. I have been involved in a smart home project where door locks and sensors are developed using microcontrollers, while gateways use Linux systems, each performing its own duties and giving full play to its own advantages.
2. Which direction is more suitable for beginners to start?
Based on my years of experience and observations of countless beginner guidance, my advice is:
2.1 Most people should learn microcontrollers first
There are several key reasons to support this suggestion:
Easier to get started and build confidence：
The microcontroller system is relatively simple. From lighting up an LED to controlling various sensors, you can quickly see the results, which is very important for beginners to build confidence. I remember when I first started studying, I saw the code I wrote to control the LED flashing, and that sense of accomplishment made me sleepless all night.
Establish basic hardware knowledge：
Microcontroller development requires direct dealing with hardware, which helps to establish an understanding of basic knowledge such as digital circuits, analog circuits, and communication protocols. In the process of learning microcontrollers, I gradually mastered basic knowledge such as GPIO, interrupts, timers, ADC, I2C, SPI, etc., which came in handy when learning Linux.
Understanding the underlying principles：
Microcontroller programming usually requires direct operation of registers, which helps to understand how the hardware works. When you understand how GPIO controls pin high and low levels by setting register bits, your understanding of hardware and software interaction will be more profound.
Debugging ability development：
Debugging in microcontroller development is usually more direct and transparent, which helps to cultivate problem positioning and solving capabilities. I remember debugging an I2C communication problem. I observed the timing signals on the bus through an oscilloscope, and finally found that it was caused by the clock frequency setting error. This experience of directly observing hardware behavior is invaluable.
Lay the foundation for learning Linux：
After mastering the basic knowledge of microcontrollers, it will be easier to understand the concepts of drivers and hardware abstraction layers after learning Linux. I first learned the STM32 microcontroller, mastered the use of various peripherals, and then learned Linux driver development. This transition is very natural.
2.2 Under what circumstances should you learn Linux first?
Of course, there are some special cases where it may be more appropriate to learn Linux first:
Already have a software development background：
If you already have a strong software development background, especially familiar with C/C++ and operating system concepts, you can consider learning embedded Linux directly.
Definitely targeted at Linux applications：
If you know clearly that the products you want to develop in the future must be based on Linux, such as smart cameras, smart speakers, etc., you can learn Linux first.
Not interested in underlying hardware：
If you are not interested in direct operation of hardware and prefer application-level development, you can also choose the Linux route.
There are hardware experts in the team：
If you are in a team with hardware experts in charge of the underlying layer, you may just need to focus on Linux application development.
Still, I still think that even in these situations, understanding some of the basics of microcontrollers will be beneficial to your embedded path.
3. Detailed explanation of the learning path of microcontroller
If you decide to learn microcontroller first, I recommend the following learning path:
3.1 Choose a platform suitable for getting started
Beginners should choose a platform with rich information and active community:
STM32 series：
This is the entry-level platform I highly recommend. The STM32F103 series (also known as BluePill) is cheap, rich in information and huge in the community. My course is based on this series, through systematic project practice, helping beginners quickly master the core knowledge of STM32 development.
Arduino Platform：
For those who have no programming foundation at all, the Arduino may be a more friendly starting point. But please note that the Arduino is too packaged and is not suitable for long-term learning. It is recommended to transition to professional platforms such as STM32 as soon as possible.
ESP32/ESP8266：
This type of microcontroller with integrated WiFi is a popular choice for IoT development, but as an introductory platform, its complexity may be slightly higher.
MSP430 series：
Texas Instruments' low-power microcontroller is suitable for applications with extremely high power consumption requirements, but there is relatively little information about beginners.
My personal starting point is the 51 microcontroller, but that happened more than ten years ago. Now it is not recommended that newcomers start from 51. It is a more efficient choice to start with STM32 directly.
3.2 Basic knowledge that must be mastered
Regardless of which platform you choose, the following knowledge is necessary:
Basic programming capabilities：
C language is a must, including basic concepts such as pointers, structures, and functions. In microcontroller programming, pointer operation is particularly important, and many hardware operations rely on pointers.
Digital circuit basics：
Understand digital logic, such as the concepts of NAND gates, triggers, etc. This helps to understand the internal structure of the microcontroller and the working principle of the peripherals.
Basic circuit knowledge：
Understand Ohm's Law, basic component characteristics, simple circuit analysis, etc. This is very important for connecting external components.
Communication Protocol：
Master common communication protocols, such as UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, etc. These protocols are often used when connecting various sensors and modules.
Interrupts and timers：
Understand the interrupt mechanism and how timers work, which is the basis for implementing timing tasks and responding to external events.
I once mentored an undergraduate student who skipped these basic knowledge and directly studied project development, but was confused when he encountered problems. Later, I took him back to learn these basics systematically, and his progress immediately accelerated significantly.
3.3 Practical project suggestions
Theoretical learning must be combined with practical projects:
Basic control project：
- LED flashing and key control
- PWM controls LED brightness or servo
- ADC collects analog sensor data
- Interrupt-based event processing
Communication Project：
- Serial communication and computer interaction
- I2C control OLED display
- SPI read and write SD card
- Communication using CAN bus
Comprehensive application projects：
- Temperature and humidity monitoring system
- Simple data collection and storage
- Motor control system
- Simple IoT node device
In my course, I designed 15 projects from shallow to deep, from the simplest GPIO control to complex sensor applications. Each project contains new knowledge points to help students systematically build a knowledge system.
3.4 Advanced Learning Direction
After mastering the basics, you can advance in the following directions:
RTOS Application：
Learn real-time operating systems such as FreeRTOS or RT-Thread, and understand concepts such as task management and synchronous communication.
Low power design：
Learning the low-power mode and power-saving design technology of microcontrollers is particularly important for battery-powered devices.
Reliability design：
Learn reliability design technologies such as watchdog, reset management, error handling, etc. to improve system stability.
Code architecture design：
Learn design patterns and code architecture to improve the maintainability and scalability of your code.
I found that many beginners are eager to achieve success and skip the basics and learn advanced concepts directly. The result is that they know the truth but not the reason, and they cannot solve the problem when they encounter problems. The gradual learning path is the king.
4. Detailed explanation of embedded Linux learning path
If you decide to learn embedded Linux first or at the same time, here are the paths I recommend:
4.1 Basics of Linux
Before starting embedded Linux, you need to master the following basics:
Linux operation basics：
Familiar with basic concepts such as Linux command line operation, file system management, and permission management. I suggest installing the Ubuntu system on your PC first and be familiar with daily operations.
C language programming：
Like microcontrollers, C language is a necessary skill, especially pointers, memory management, file operations, etc.
Compile toolchain：
Understand the use of gcc, make and other tools, and master the writing of Makefiles. This is crucial for building embedded Linux systems.
Network Basics：
Understand the basic concepts of the TCP/IP protocol stack and master Socket programming, which is the basis for network function development.
I once guided a colleague to switch from web development to embedded Linux. His Linux foundation is good, but he is not familiar with C language, and as a result, he encountered great difficulties in debugging memory problems. This shows that even experienced developers need to ensure solid basic knowledge.
4.2 Development Board Selection
Choosing a suitable development board is essential to getting started:
Raspberry Pi series：
The most popular introductory platform has extremely rich information and a huge community, but it prefers application development and is not suitable for learning underlying drivers.
BeagleBone Series：
An open source hardware platform is relatively friendly to underlying development and is suitable for learning-driven development.
RK3399/RK3588 Development Board：
Rockchip's high-performance platform is suitable for applications that require high computing capabilities, such as AI, video processing, etc.
Quanzhi A series development board：
The price is affordable and the information is relatively rich, making it suitable for introductory learning.
Personally, I suggest that beginners start with the Raspberry Pi, and after getting familiar with the basic concepts, they can choose a more professional development board to learn in depth. When I coach beginners, I usually ask them to run basic applications on the Raspberry Pi first, and then try more complex development.
4.3 Learning Path Planning
The learning of embedded Linux can be divided into several levels:
Application layer development：
- Learn C/C++ programming under Linux
- Familiar with common APIs and system calls
- Master the concepts of processes, threads, IPC, etc.
- Learn GUI frameworks such as Qt (if required)
System layer development：
- Learn Linux startup process
- Master the configuration and use of Bootloader (such as U-Boot)
- Understand file system construction and configuration
- Master the cutting technology of embedded Linux system
Driver layer development：
- Learn Linux device driver model
- Master the development of character equipment, block equipment and other drivers
- Learn I2C, SPI and other bus driver development
- Understand DTS (device tree) configuration
Kernel layer development：
- Deeply understand the Linux kernel architecture
- Learn kernel scheduling, memory management and other mechanisms
- Master kernel debugging and optimization techniques
This learning path is more difficult from top to bottom, and it is recommended that beginners start from the application layer and learn gradually downward. I am here"STM32 Practical Quick Start"Although the course mainly explains microcontroller development, it also introduces some Linux-related knowledge, laying the foundation for students to learn embedded Linux later.
4.4 Common project practices
Combining theory with practice is the most effective way to learn:
Entry-level project：
- LED and GPIO control
- Sensor data acquisition
- Simple web server
- Network communication applications
Intermediate project：
- Camera image acquisition
- Audio recording and playback
- Simple GUI application
- MQTT Internet of Things Application
Advanced Projects：
- Video codec application
- Deep Learning Model Deployment
- Custom Linux system construction
- Driver development and system optimization
I once directed a team to learn embedded Linux from scratch, and our first project was a simple smart gateway that included sensor data acquisition, local storage and network transmission capabilities. Through this project, team members have a basic understanding of all levels of embedded Linux.
5. How to effectively combine two directions?
In actual work, you often need to have knowledge of microcontroller and Linux at the same time. Here are some suggestions that effectively combine the two:
5.1 Typical combined architecture
In many complex systems, microcontrollers and Linux usually work together:
Hierarchical architecture：
- Linux is responsible for complex computing, network communication, user interface, etc.
- The microcontroller is responsible for real-time control, data acquisition, underlying driver, etc.
- The two communicate through interfaces such as UART, USB or SPI
Coprocessor architecture：
- Integrated microcontroller as coprocessor in Linux system
- Microcontrollers handle tasks with high real-time requirements
- Linux handles complex business logic
A smart home system I have participated in the development adopts this architecture: the Linux host is responsible for network communication and user interface, and multiple STM32 microcontrollers are responsible for sensor data acquisition and device control, and they communicate through the serial port and the CAN bus. This architecture fully utilizes the advantages of both technologies.
5.2 Suggestions for learning order
If you plan to learn both, I recommend:
Learn microcontroller first, then learn Linux：
First master the basic knowledge of microcontrollers, understand the working principles of hardware and underlying programming, and then learn Linux's system architecture and application development.
Step by step, don't rush to achieve success：
Embedded fields have a wide range of knowledge and require time to accumulate. It is recommended to first reach the intermediate level in one direction and then expand the second direction.
Project-driven learning：
Choose a project that involves both microcontrollers and Linux, and learn how the two collaborate in practice.
My own learning path is to first focus on the development of STM32 microcontrollers, master the use of various peripherals and RTOS, and then learn Linux system development. This order allows me to better understand the hardware abstraction layer and driver mechanism in Linux systems.
5.3 Skill improvement strategy
To make progress in both directions, effective learning strategies are required:
Core knowledge sharing：
Identify common knowledge in microcontrollers and Linux, such as C language, communication protocols, embedded design patterns, etc., and focus on mastering these common knowledge.
Differentiated learning：
Targeted learning is based on their respective features, such as Linux system management and network programming, real-time control of microcontrollers and low-power design.
Combining project practice：
Design cross-platform projects, such as microcontroller data acquisition, Linux processing and display, and master the collaboration methods of the two through actual projects.
Learn from strengths and make up for shortcomings：
Use Linux's advanced programming ideas to improve the microcontroller code architecture, and use the microcontroller's hardware knowledge to assist in understanding the Linux driver principles.
In my course, I specially designed some microcontroller projects that communicate with Linux systems to help students understand the collaboration methods of the two systems and lay the foundation for future comprehensive applications.
6. Industry development and employment direction
Understanding industry trends is essential to making informed learning decisions:
6.1 Development trend of microcontroller
The development of the microcontroller field shows the following trends:
Continuously improving performance：
Modern microcontrollers have increasingly strong processing performance, such as the main frequency of the STM32H7 series reaches 480MHz, which is close to the early embedded Linux processors.
Improved integration：
More and more peripherals and functions are integrated into microcontrollers, such as wireless communications, encryption engines, AI accelerators, etc.
Ecosystem perfection：
Development tools and middleware are becoming more and more abundant, reducing the difficulty of development.
Expand application scenarios：
Expand from the traditional control field to emerging fields such as the Internet of Things, wearable devices, and smart homes.
I have observed that although Linux has eroded in some fields, microcontrollers are still irreplaceable in many scenarios due to their low power consumption, low cost and real-time advantages.
6.2 Development trends in embedded Linux
Embedded Linux is also developing rapidly:
Hardware costs decline：
The price of processors that can run Linux is constantly decreasing, making their application scope wider.
Open source ecology prospers：
Build systems such as Yocto and Buildroot make custom Linux systems easier.
Edge computing rises：
AI and big data have driven the development of edge computing and created new opportunities for embedded Linux.
Standardization Trends：
Industry standards such as AGL (auto-grade Linux), IVI, etc. have promoted standardization in specific fields.
A friend of mine works in the field of smart speakers and told me that as users' demand for voice interaction and multimedia functions increases, products that originally used microcontrollers are gradually turning to embedded Linux platforms.
6.3 Employment direction suggestions
Depending on different backgrounds and interests, I have the following suggestions for employment direction:
Positions that focus on hardware control：
If you like to directly control hardware and are interested in systems with high real-time requirements, the direction of microcontrollers is more suitable, such as industrial control, automotive electronics, medical equipment and other fields.
Positions that focus on complex applications：
If you prefer to develop complex applications and are interested in user interfaces and network communications, embedded Linux is more suitable, such as smart home gateways, smart cameras, industrial HMI, etc.
Cross-border integration positions：
Many systems require the collaboration of two technologies, and engineers who master both are more competitive, such as IoT architects, embedded system architects, etc.
I started with a microcontroller and gradually expanded to embedded Linux, and finally was able to design a complete system with two technologies. This compound skill brings great advantages in career development.
7. Learning Resource Recommendations
Finally, share some learning resources that I think are valuable:
7.1 Microcontroller learning resources
Beginner Books：
- "ARM Embedded System Development Practical Practice" - Introduction Classic
- "STM32 Cortex-M3 Authoritative Guide" - System Detailed Explanation of STM32 Architecture
- "Embedded Real-time Operating System μC/OS-III" - Must-read for RTOS learning
Online courses：
- My courses - Systematic learning from basic to practical
- STM32 series courses on Udemy - English resources, but of higher quality
Open Source Project：
- STM32CubeF1 - ST official library and routine
- FreeRTOS - Open source RTOS system, clean and easy to understand code
- RT-Thread - Domestic open source RTOS, rich in Chinese information
7.2 Embedded Linux Learning Resources
Beginner Books：
- "Embedded Linux Basic Tutorial" - Must Read Beginner
- "Detailed explanation of Linux device driver development" - Driver development classic
- Building Embedded Linux Systems - System Building Guide
Online courses：
- Embedded Linux Courses from the Linux Foundation
- Buildroot and Yocto courses on Udemy
Open Source Project：
- Buildroot - Tools for building embedded Linux systems
- Yocto Project - Create a custom embedded Linux distribution
- Busybox - Embedded Linux Core Toolset
7.3 Learning method suggestions
Based on my years of learning and teaching experience, the following learning methods are recommended:
Project-driven learning：
Choose projects with clear goals and learn in practice. This is much better than pure theoretical learning.
From shallow to deep, step by step：
Don’t challenge complex projects from the beginning. Grasp the foundation first and then gradually increase the difficulty.
Community participation：
Join the technology community and communicate with other developers, and your ability to solve problems will be greatly improved.
Practice more hands-on：
Embedded development is a very practical field. You must do more and repeatedly verify theoretical knowledge.
I always emphasize the importance of practice, and each knowledge point has corresponding practical projects to ensure that students can truly master the skills rather than just understand the concept.
Conclusion
Embedded development is a broad and promising field. Whether you choose microcontrollers or Linux, there is broad room for development. For beginners, my advice is: unless there are special circumstances, you should usually start with a microcontroller and master the basics before learning Linux.
Of course, the most important thing is to find a learning path that suits you and maintain a passion for continuous learning. Technology is constantly improving, and only by continuous learning can we maintain competitiveness in this field.
I hope my experience sharing will be helpful to you. If you decide to start with a microcontroller, please contact me"STM32 Practical Practical Quick Start" (click to go directly)Course, through 15 practical projects, systematically master STM32 development skills, laying a solid foundation for your embedded path.
No matter which path you choose, I wish you all the best in your study and work in the embedded field! If you have any questions, please feel free to exchange and discuss in the comment area.