Developing solutions for remote SoC labs

Abstract

Embedded System labs involve working on Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Zynq System-on-Chips (SoC). The key aspect is that these boards can be programmed and tested remotely. However, conducting remote labs for such courses with large class sizes, particularly during COVID-19, breeds a lot of challenges, due to limitations in time and resources. Different institutes have different systems in place for conducting remote SoC labs. We propose a system which provides an organized, efficient and convenient way of allocating lab resources and timed access to students, requiring minimal number of steps for the students and minimum intervention from the teaching staff. Not only that, it attempts to provide an experience as close to the physical labs as possible. The implementation involves a well-designed Graphical User Interface(GUI) using Python Django, along with Python scripts running on lab desktops and Linux SSH server, and Arduino UNO-based circuits. The GUI also enables the live monitoring of the board being worked upon. We aim to deploy this solution to technical institutes which include embedded system courses in their curriculum. It also has scope to help the conduction of these courses on online learning platforms. It aims to guarantee the smooth functioning of remote SoC labs, yet provide scope for future improvements.