This book provides easy-to-understand and easy-to-implement guidance for rapid prototype development. Designed for readers unfamiliar with advanced computing technologies, this highly accessible text describes several cutting-edge open-source software and hardware technologies, examines a number of embedded computer systems and their practical applications, and includes detailed projects for applying rapid prototype development skills in real time. The authors effectively demonstrate that, with the help of high-performance microprocessors, microcontrollers, and highly optimized algorithms, one can develop smarter embedded computer systems.