Demystifying Embedded Systems Middleware

When asked, "What is the biggest factor influencing processor choice for new projects?" engineers overwhelmingly agree that the robustness of the processors' attendant software is the key linchpin of the decision. Not speed, not price, but available software. Because software has become the driving factor in the development of embedded systems, middleware, the "glue" allowing hardware and software to work together effectively, has taken on a role of pivotal importance. However, middleware is perhaps the most mysterious of all the aspects of an embedded system, even to expert designers! Available information is scattered and mostly proprietary, not to mention largely outdated, and obfuscated by a sea of acronyms. This practical technical guide to embedded middleware implementation offers a coherent framework that guides readers through all the key concepts necessary to gain a clear understanding of this broad and diverse topic. Big picture theoretical discussion is integrated with down-to-earth advice on successful real-world use via step-by-step examples of each type of middleware implementation. Hundreds of diagrams help the reader to visualize the complexities of the wide variety of embedded middleware that exists in the industry today. Technically detailed case studies help to bring it all together, providing valuable insight into the typical engineering situations readers are likely to encounter. Expert author Tammy Noergaard keeps explanations as simple and readable as possible, eschewing jargon and carefully defining acronyms. The start of each chapter includes a 'setting the stage' section, so readers can take a step back and understand the context and applications of the information being provided. Core middleware, such as networking protocols, file systems, virtual machines, and databases; more complex middleware that builds upon generic pieces, such as MOM, ORB, and RPC; and integrated middleware software packages, such as embedded JVMs, .NET, and CORBA packages are all demystified. A free companion CD-ROM includes all the open-source code utilized by the author in examples, so that readers can obtain hands-on programming experience without making any further purchase.

* The only complete guide to middleware, one of the most important AND most widely misunderstood aspects of embedded systems - hundreds of devices, from digital TVs to smart phones, can't function without it!

* Offers thorough middleware coverage, including basic theory and core middleware, as well as complex implementations and integrated packages

* Detailed case studies, real-world examples, hundreds of diagrams, and a free CD-ROM provide context and aid understanding of embedded middleware

Section I. Introduction to Middleware

Chapter 1 : An Introduction to Middleware
Chapter 2. Middleware and Methodology
Section Summary and End notes

Section II. Core General Purpose Middleware
Chapter 3 : Networking
Chapter 4 : File Systems
Chapter 5 : Programming Languages and Virtual Machines
Chapter 6 : Databases
Section Summary and End Notes

Section III. Building On General Purpose Core Middleware
Part 1. Networking and Communications
Chapter 7 : Message Oriented Middleware [MOM]
Chapter 8 : Object Request Broker [ORB]
Chapter 9. Remote Procedure Call [RPC]
Chapter 10 : Transaction Processing (TP) Monitors
Chapter 11 : Three Tier Client/Server Model
Chapter 12 : Distributed Object Computing
Part 2. Other Types of Middleware
Chapter 13 : Database-oriented
Chapter 14. Multimedia
Section Summary and End Notes

Section IV. Integrated Middleware Packages
Chapters 15 Java
Chapter 16 .Net Compact Framework
Chapter 17. CORBA
Section Summary and End Notes

Section V. Case Studies of Implementing Middleware
Chapter 18 : Implementing Core Middleware
Chapter 19 : Implementing Integrated Middleware
Chapter 20 : Conclusion
Section Summary and End Notes

Section VI. Appendices
Appendix A. Middleware Standards
Appendix B. Acronyms
Appendix C. Glossary