Course code: WEB-22
  • Years with company: 5
  • Years programming: 34
  • Primary programming language: C
  • Other programming languages: C++, Assembly
  • Unit test harnesses: Just custom built solutions
  • Something else: Been in Embedded System Development since 1993, but started coding in 7th grade w/ BASIC. Was in Electronics Technology competitions in High School and won state VICA competition as a senior. Undergrad in 1993 from Auburn in Computer Engineering.
  • Test practice now: Mostly functional testing w/ hardware. Occasionally I will write a short test program that will fully exercise inputs of a function, etc.
  • Target system: I design Lithium Ion Battery packs for power tools. I also design some tools for use on the packs occasionally.
  • Dev tools: IAR is my preferred compiler and debugger. Also, all the normal EE bench tools, Osc, DMM, etc. Lately been using Parasoft for static analysis.
  • Build time: 11-30 seconds
  • Coding standard: We (our EE development department) developed our own coding standard which is a modified version of the one developed by Barr.
  • Function too long: Our coding standard calls for 100 lines or less.
  • Code reviews: Coding reviews are not "mandated" by our procedures. When we do have them, many times they get caught up in the minute details on a particular portion of code and become less effective.
  • Code time: 45
  • Test time: 35
  • Debug time: 20
  • Favorite thing about dev: I like the logical nature of coding. I like coming up with innovative ways to make code smaller and easier to understand/read.
  • Least favorite thing about dev: It can take a lot of time to develop "good" code. Many times the extra effort taken to make code better is not appreciated by decision makers, etc.
  • Tdd knowledge: Not much.
  • Why are you attending: My manager recommended I attend. Probably because he doesn't think I do enough testing.