Programming Embedded Systems
DigiKey and Microchip to Host Educational Webinar on Programming Embedded Systems
Free webinar to introduce two ways of programming hardware
Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 10:00 CDT
oin us as we introduce embedded system design across software and hardware abstraction levels, with a focus on when high-level code is sufficient and when dedicated hardware logic is required. You will gain practical insight into how modern embedded systems combine software control, digital logic, and hands-on hardware skills.
Participants will see demos using CircuitPython on a Microchip development board for rapid prototyping and hardware interaction, along with a CLB / MiniFPGA kit. The CLB portion emphasizes combinational and sequential logic, highlights scenarios where hardware logic is needed for timing and determinism, and includes introductory soldering practice to connect logic design with real hardware.
What you’ll gain from attending:
- Understanding software vs. hardware logic: Gain a clear perspective on when to utilize CircuitPython for rapid prototyping and when to turn to Verilog for hardware logic design.
- Hands-on experience: Witness demos using a Microchip development board, giving you practical insight into hardware interaction and rapid prototyping techniques.
- Introductory soldering practice: Enhance your skills as we guide you through connecting logic design with real hardware, providing an engaging way to understand embedded systems better.
- Digital design exposure: Dive into digital design with Verilog using CLBs (MiniFPGA), preparing you for real-world applications in coursework or projects.
- Innovative learning directions: Explore the exciting new directions Microchip is taking in enhancing student learning outcomes, ensuring you stay ahead in your field.
Speakers:
Ross Satchell, Senior Engineer, Microchip
Ross is a Senior Engineer in Microchip’s Academic Program. He started out as a Maker developing coffee related Arduino projects including a PID temperature controller for espresso machines, which led him to pursue a bachelor’s in computer engineering and a master’s in data analytics at ASU. He started at Microchip in 2019 and worked as a Technical Marketing Engineer developing engaging demos for trade shows and leading capstone teams for 5 years before moving to the Academic Program. He now develops academic focused development kits, CircuitPython student workshops, and works closely with professors to develop educational content.
Hani Ahmad Assi, Senior Technical Staff Engineer, Microchip
Hani is a Senior Technical Staff Engineer at Microchip Technology. He earned his PhD in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University and brings over 15 years of industry experience and 8 years in academia, with expertise in transistor-level mixed-signal circuit design. While at Microchip, he coauthored a practical embedded computing book and is currently developing a SoC FPGA book based on the PolarFire SoC FPGA. He also serves on academic advisory boards for multiple universities and community colleges, contributing to curriculum development, new program creation, technical content, guest lectures, workshops, and capstone project mentoring.
