FIRMWARE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT FOR A SMART HANDHELD DEVICE
CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS
A client with a popular fin-tech app for small businesses approached us for it’s first foray into hardware. They approached us to take-over the entire firmware development of their device.
They wanted many features like Bluetooth connectivity, 4G and WIFI-Connectivity, periodic cloud-server uploads and downloads, OTA updates, microphone connection, audio storage and playing etc. This was to be done with a limited embedded hardware resources. The final product was expected to be user-friendly and simple to navigate. Since the device was battery powered, battery saving was the topmost priority at all instances
KEY CHALLENGES
The final expected device was expected to be loaded with features as listed above. Multiple processes could be on-going at the same time and the firmware had to handle task-allocation, priority as well as ensure no visible lagging and UI issues. First time configuration was supposed to be as easy as possible to ensure that the user has a good first impression. Security challenges accompanying OTA had to be handled appropriately.
VISO SOLUTION
VISO proposed a modular, FreeRTOS based task oriented approach to the firmware. The entire design was first evaluated and the system design was laid out. Co-Ordination with Hardware development company was enhanced and maximum leverage for the firmware was ensured. All resources were optimized and CPU was kept on deep-sleep or light sleep incase of system being in idle state. The LCD Display and other resources were turned off when not required by the user. Network and Wireless Protocol stacks were developed were followed for communication. It was ensured that a bug-free seamless experience was delivered by the firmware.
VISO SCOPE
1. Firmware Development
2. Firmware Testing