This episode of the Embedded Tech podcast, hosted by Nicola Cope, explores advancements in embedded technology, robotics, and IoT at the Hardware Pioneers Max Show in London. Topics include the rapid evolution of robotics, new compliance regulations, the shifting focus of IoT, proactive obsolescence management, and AI integration in embedded systems. Experts discuss antenna design, accessibility technology, and key trends for the coming year.

Takeaways

- Robotics is advancing, with applications in security and emergency services.

- CRA compliance is critical for companies trading in Europe.

- IoT discussions now emphasise user experience and problem-solving.

- Companies are proactively addressing obsolescence in product design.

- Secure design is essential due to new regulations.

- Obsolescence in supply chains requires strategic partnerships.

- AI will significantly impact embedded systems.

- The hardware industry faces a shortage of young engineers.

- Innovative technologies are improving accessibility for people with disabilities.

- Future trends will centre on AI, security, and connectivity solutions.

Guests

Nathan Wallace - Robotics Engineer, NextGen RI

Ron Singh – EMEA Sales Director, Digi International

Scott Brenton – IoT Technology Director, Solsta

Dunstan Power – Director, ByteSnap Design

Nigel Watts – Founder, Trailing Edge Technologies

Brian Collins – Director, BSC Associates, Radio Systems & Antenna Design Consultancy

Darren Keeley – Sales Manager UK & Ireland, Digi International

Andrew Pockson – Engineering Manager, Anglia Components

In this episode: Nicola Cope from ByteSnap's editorial team sits down with Liam O'Donnell, Senior Software Engineer at ByteSnap, to explore the increasingly important topic of Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs) in embedded systems security.

They discuss what SBOMs are in the embedded systems context, the unique challenges they present compared to traditional software applications, and how they contribute to overall cybersecurity strategies. Liam shares insights on why tracking software components is not just regulatory compliance but good development practice, particularly when responding to critical vulnerabilities.

We cover:

• What an SBOM is and why it matters for embedded systems
• Critical components that should be included in all SBOMs
• How SBOMs help identify security vulnerabilities
• Tools for automating SBOM generation
• The costs and ROI of implementing SBOM practices
• Integration with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps workflows
• Regulatory compliance considerations and potential penalties
• Future trends in SBOM adoption for embedded systems

Whether you're new to embedded security or looking to improve your current practices, this episode provides valuable guidance on implementing and maintaining effective SBOMs for your embedded systems projects.

In this week's episode, host Dunstan Power speaks with Paige West, Managing Editor of Electronic Specifier about the critical issue of technological obsolescence in manufacturing.

They discuss key findings from Dunstan’s new industry report, “Futureproofing Manufacturing: Tackling Obsolescence & Electronics Challenges in Industrial Manufacturing”, assessing the challenges manufacturers face with component availability, the evolving nature of obsolescence, and the importance of proactive management strategies.

The conversation highlights industry insights, future trends, and resources available for manufacturers looking to improve their obsolescence management practices.

Paige West

A graduate of the University of Greenwich with a degree in English Literature, Paige West has worked in the technology and publishing industry for over ten years. As Managing Editor at Electronic Specifier for the past three years, she has combined a deep editorial expertise with a keen interest in the innovations shaping tomorrow’s world.

Passionate about advocating for women in tech, Paige champions diverse voices across the electronics sector and beyond. With a curiosity for emerging technologies and a commitment to clear, informed storytelling, she strives to spotlight the people and ideas driving progress across the global electronics landscape.

In this week’s episode, Editorial Team's Nicola Cope explores the remarkable stories of veteran engineers who've helped to shape our technology, drawing parallels to modern engineering challenges.

This episode shows the amazing journeys of engineers who have worked through big changes within our industry—much like today's IoT professionals facing critical industry shifts.

We cover:

• Personal stories of how veteran engineers, from RAF to Rolls-Royce, adapted in engineering
• Sharing of knowledge between the different generations in engineering
• The importance of resilience when solving tech problems

We hope you enjoy this celebration of the valuable contributions of veteran engineers. It serves as a reminder of the importance of connection with different generations. By sharing their stories, we honour not only their achievements but also highlight how valuable experience and knowledge are in shaping our world.

We’re proud to have partnered with Age UK Shropshire Telford& Wrekin to share these inspiring stories.

Special thanks to David, Tony, Ed & Terry and everyone at Age UK.

If you would like to learn more about Age UK and how they support older people in our community, please follow the link and find out how you can help: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/shropshireandtelford/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/

In this episode: ByteSnap Director, Dunstan Power & Editorial Team, Nicola Cope tackle the sobering reality that 90% of electronic products never make it to market.

This statistic affects countless innovators and businesses across the electronics industry. If you're developing a new product, you need to understand why so many fail and how to be in the successful 10%.

We cover:

• Critical market research approaches to validate your concept early
• Financial planning realities: why you'll need at least six figures (and twice your initial budget)
• The prototype-to-production journey and why it's more complex than you think
• A real-world case study of timing challenges in the IoT market
• Strategies for building the right team and protecting your intellectual property

Whether you're a start-up with a brilliant idea or an established manufacturer exploring new opportunities, this episode provides essential insights from our 17+ years of industry experience to help you beat the odds and successfully launch your electronic product.

In this episode: ByteSnap Director, Dunstan Power & Editorial Team, Nicola Cope discuss u-blox’s announcement to leave the cellular IoT module market.

This decision affects thousands of IoT devices around the world. If your products use u-blox cellular modules, you’re going to need a new plan.

We cover:

- Immediate supply chain steps to take

- Technical migration challenges you’ll face

- Strategic choices for replacement modules

- A real-world case study from the chip shortage crisis

- Strategies to stay ahead of future component obsolescence