Module 14: Advanced Topics and Extensions

Overview

In this final module, we'll explore advanced C programming topics that extend beyond the basics. These topics represent the cutting edge of C programming and demonstrate why C remains relevant in modern software development.

Learning Objectives

• Understand multi-threading and concurrent programming in C
• Master advanced network programming techniques
• Learn graphics programming fundamentals
• Explore embedded programming concepts
• Understand real-time system programming
• Master modern C features (C11/C17)

Multi-threading and Concurrency

JavaScript vs C Threading

JavaScript uses an event-driven, single-threaded model with asynchronous operations, while C provides direct access to system threads and synchronization primitives.

Thread Synchronization

Advanced Network Programming

Socket Programming

Graphics Programming Fundamentals

Basic Graphics with SDL2

Embedded Programming

Bare Metal Programming

Real-Time System Programming

Real-Time Constraints

Modern C Features (C11/C17)

Atomic Operations

Generic Programming with _Generic

Thread-Local Storage

Exercises

Exercise 1: Multi-threaded Matrix Multiplication

Implement a multi-threaded matrix multiplication algorithm in C using pthreads:

void multiply_matrices_threaded(int** A, int** B, int** C, 
                               int rows, int cols, int threads);

Exercise 2: Real-Time Task Scheduler

Create a simple real-time task scheduler that implements Rate Monotonic Scheduling:

typedef struct {
    char name[32];
    int period;
    int deadline;
    int execution_time;
    int priority;
} Task;

void schedule_tasks(Task* tasks, int num_tasks);

Exercise 3: Network Server with Thread Pool

Implement a multi-threaded network server that uses a thread pool to handle client connections:

typedef struct {
    int server_socket;
    int max_threads;
    pthread_t* threads;
    int running;
} ThreadPoolServer;

ThreadPoolServer* create_server(int port, int max_threads);
void destroy_server(ThreadPoolServer* server);

Advanced Topics Summary

Key Advanced Concepts

1. Multi-threading: Direct control over system threads and synchronization
2. Network Programming: Low-level socket programming and protocols
3. Graphics Programming: Hardware-accelerated graphics with libraries like SDL2
4. Embedded Programming: Bare metal programming for microcontrollers
5. Real-Time Systems: Deterministic timing and scheduling
6. Modern C Features: C11/C17 features for safer and more efficient code

Performance Considerations

• Thread Safety: Use atomic operations and proper synchronization
• Memory Management: Efficient allocation strategies for real-time systems
• Cache Optimization: Data structure design for embedded systems
• Timing Constraints: Meeting real-time deadlines
• Resource Management: Efficient use of limited embedded resources

Best Practices

• Use appropriate synchronization primitives
• Implement proper error handling for network operations
• Design for real-time constraints
• Optimize for embedded system limitations
• Leverage modern C features for safety and performance
• Test thoroughly in target environments

Next Steps

This module has covered advanced C programming topics that demonstrate the language's power and versatility. To continue your C programming journey:

1. Explore specific domains: Choose an area of interest (embedded, graphics, networking, etc.)
2. Practice with real projects: Build complete applications using these concepts
3. Study existing codebases: Learn from open-source C projects
4. Contribute to projects: Join open-source communities
5. Stay updated: Follow C language developments and new features

C programming remains essential in many critical areas of software development, from operating systems to embedded devices. The skills you've learned in this course provide a solid foundation for advanced software development and system programming.

Remember that C's power comes with responsibility - always prioritize safety, correctness, and maintainability in your code.