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ECE · Embedded Systems

Embedded Systems and Internet of Things (IoT) Internship

Connect sensors, microcontrollers and reliable device-to-cloud telemetry in a tested prototype.

A hardware-aware IoT pathway covering microcontroller programming, sensor interfaces, connectivity, device safety and a documented connected-device prototype.

Program overview

Eligible branches: Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Instrumentation and related branches

Target learner level: Learners with introductory programming interest who want to work with firmware, sensors and connected devices.

Prerequisites: Basic electronics and programming curiosity · Simulation alternatives are available where a physical kit is unavailable

Technologies and tools

Embedded C/C++ or MicroPython · GPIO · timers · ADC and PWM · I2C/SPI/UART · sensors · Wi-Fi/BLE concepts · MQTT

Practical assignments

  • Read a sensor datasheet and define a calibration check
  • Implement a state-driven sensor and actuator routine
  • Send telemetry with retry and offline behaviour in a simulator or kit

Capstone project

Integrate sensing, embedded firmware and device-to-application telemetry into a tested prototype.

Expected deliverables

  • Firmware source and wiring or simulation diagram
  • Sensor calibration and test results
  • Data-flow and device architecture
  • Reliability and safe-operation checklist
  • Prototype demonstration

Learning outcomes

  • Interface sensors and actuators with a microcontroller
  • Design a reliable telemetry path and handle device errors
  • Demonstrate and document an IoT prototype

Week-by-week curriculum

The program follows a 13-week core pathway. Weeks 14–15 are optional advanced work when the project scope calls for it.

Weeks 1–2

Orientation, fundamentals and setup

  • Orientation, electrical safety, block diagrams and tool/simulator setup
  • C/C++ or MicroPython refresh, digital/analog signals and datasheet reading

Weeks 3–5

Core concepts and guided learning

  • GPIO, timers, ADC, PWM and interrupt fundamentals
  • Sensor calibration, I2C/SPI/UART buses and actuator control
  • Firmware structure, state machines and serial debugging

Weeks 6–8

Intermediate concepts and practical exercises

  • Wi-Fi/BLE connectivity, MQTT concepts and telemetry payload design
  • Device provisioning, retries, offline behavior and power-aware operation
  • Build a sensor node with a simple dashboard and alert thresholds

Weeks 9–11

Advanced topics, specialist tools and project development

  • IoT threat surfaces, secure credentials and firmware-update concepts
  • Reliability testing, noise, latency and data-quality troubleshooting
  • Develop a capstone device with an architecture and test plan

Weeks 12–13

Capstone completion, testing, documentation and evaluation

  • Integrate sensing, firmware, connectivity and a useful application
  • Test sensor accuracy, reconnect behavior and safe operating conditions
  • Document wiring, firmware, data flow and demonstrate the device

Weeks 14–15 · Optional

Advanced extension and final presentation

  • Add edge filtering, low-power improvements or an additional sensor
  • Refine enclosure/interface and present a tested prototype

Frequently asked questions

Is prior experience required?

The prerequisites listed on this page describe helpful preparation. The opening weeks include a guided refresher; learners should be ready to practise consistently and complete project work.

Is physical hardware included?

The listed delivery mode may use simulation or a hardware kit. Access to a specific device or kit must be confirmed for the selected batch.