Writing Embedded Code in Rust

Introduction to Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within a larger mechanical or electrical system. They are found in various devices like washing machines, microwave ovens, and automotive control systems. Writing code for these systems often involves programming languages that provide low-level access to hardware, with Rust emerging as a popular choice due to its performance and safety features.

Setting Up Your Rust Environment

To write embedded code in Rust, you need to set up your development environment. This involves installing Rust and the necessary tools for embedded development.

Understanding the Rust Embedded Ecosystem

The Rust embedded ecosystem consists of various crates (libraries) and tools that facilitate embedded development. Important components include:

• Embedded HAL: A hardware abstraction layer for embedded systems.
• RTIC: Real-Time Interrupt-driven Concurrency for embedded applications.
• Probe-rs: A Rust library for debugging and flashing embedded devices.

Writing Your First Embedded Program

Let's create a simple embedded program that blinks an LED. This example assumes you're working on a microcontroller like the STM32 series.

#[no_std]
#![no_main]

use cortex_m::prelude::*;
use cortex_m_rt::entry;
use stm32f4xx_hal as hal;
use hal::{prelude::*, stm32};

#[entry]
fn main() -> ! {
    let dp = stm32::Peripherals::take().unwrap();
    let rcc = dp.RCC.constrain();
    let clocks = rcc.cfgr.freeze();

    let gpiod = dp.GPIOD.split();
    let mut led = gpiod.pd12.into_push_pull_output();

    loop {
        led.set_high().unwrap(); // Turn on LED
        cortex_m::asm::delay(8_000_000); // Delay
        led.set_low().unwrap(); // Turn off LED
        cortex_m::asm::delay(8_000_000); // Delay
    }
}