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Explain the memory layout of a C program.
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The memory layout of a C program typically includes sections such as the stack, heap, text (code), data, and bss (uninitialized data).
Define function call conventions in embedded systems.
Function call conventions dictate how function arguments are passed (registers vs. stack), how the stack is managed, and how return values are handled.
Explain the difference between `const` and `static` in C programming.
`const` defines a variable as constant, meaning its value cannot be changed, while `static` limits the variable's scope to the file or function and maintains its value across function calls.
What is cache coherence and why is it important?
Cache coherence ensures that multiple caches in a system maintain a consistent view of memory, which is crucial for data integrity in multi-core processors.
What are semaphores and mutexes used for in operating systems?
Semaphores and mutexes are synchronization primitives used to manage access to shared resources in concurrent programming, preventing race conditions.
In bit manipulation, what does the XOR operator (`^`) do?
The XOR operator outputs true only when inputs differ (one is true, the other is false). It’s often used for toggling bits.
Why are hashmaps useful in string manipulation tasks?
Hashmaps provide efficient lookup and storage capabilities, making them ideal for tasks that involve counting characters, frequency analysis, or quickly finding occurrences.
Describe the importance of practicing bit manipulation questions for an embedded systems interview.
Bit manipulation is often used in embedded systems for tasks like setting or clearing hardware registers, encoding information, or implementing efficient algorithms.
Differentiate between FreeRTOS and Linux in the context of embedded systems.
FreeRTOS is a real-time operating system designed for embedded systems requiring deterministic behavior, while Linux is a full-featured operating system suitable for more complex applications but typically less suitable for real-time constraints.
What are the typical stages in an embedded systems interview process?
1-2 phone screens followed by a technical virtual on-site interview focusing on embedded systems concepts and hands-on coding.
When is it crucial to use the `volatile` keyword in C programming?
`volatile` is used when a variable can be changed unexpectedly, such as in the case of hardware registers or in multi-threaded applications to prevent the compiler from optimizing the code.
What role do system calls play in an operating system?
System calls provide a programmatic interface for requests to the operating system kernel, enabling hardware and system resource management.
What advantage does practicing with LeetCode provide when preparing for embedded systems interviews?
LeetCode offers a range of coding problems that help improve problem-solving skills, coding proficiency, and familiarity with the types of questions commonly asked in interviews.
Why is understanding pointer manipulation critical in embedded systems programming?
Pointer manipulation is essential for accessing and modifying memory directly, which is crucial for hardware interaction and efficient memory management in embedded systems.
What happens when a microcontroller is powered on?
The microcontroller typically starts by executing a reset vector, which initializes the system hardware and configures necessary settings before starting the main application.
How would you reverse a linked list?
To reverse a linked list, you iterate through the list and reverse the direction of the next pointers for each node until the list is completely reversed.
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