Debugging Embedded and Real-Time Systems

2: A systematic approach to debugging

Abstract

Before we begin to look at specific problems and the tools used to solve them, this chapter discusses a general strategy for fixing and finding problems. Even the best tools need to be set up properly, and the best tool to start with is the engineer.

I provide several examples of correct and incorrect methods of debugging, with a particular focus on students.

Keywords

Occam’s Razor; Differential testing; Software timer loop; DS1232

In this chapter, I am speaking directly to the students and faculty. I would hope that experienced engineers are well versed in the techniques that I’ll be discussing, and new engineers are more at the student’s end of the spectrum. To the student reading this, please ...