When we code programs, hardware is often the last thing we think about. After all, we have intuitive compilers to handle system translations for us. They can even check our errors for free. Plus, if our computers run the programs perfectly, then there’s no need to think about how they do it.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Here’s why software engineers need at least basic hardware knowledge.
It allows you to create better programs
A lot of software engineers can get away without understanding hardware language, again, with the help of compilers. But compilers aren’t perfect. If they find that an optimization you want could meddle with existing cases, they won’t process it. For example, even if four integer operations can be performed in one CPU core simultaneously, your compiler might not maximize the resources available. Instead, they’ll just run the load data or integer ALU, severely slowing down your computing time. Sometimes, they’ll even ignore the request.
As such, it’s your job as a software engineer to ensure that your projects are accomplished efficiently. But converting source code requires knowledge of computing systems, making the latter essential.
It lets you know when it’s time to upgrade
Knowing how computers work will allow you to better understand what components you need to optimize your processes. In this case, there are two things you should familiarize yourself with: the CPU and the motherboard.
The CPU determines how many processes you can run at a time and how heavy they can be. For example, if you run 40 processes at a time, you might need a CPU with 16 threads. Then there’s the motherboard — a type of modern PCB that embeds all its components on a single, flat structure.
Knowing what slots it contains and how they’re connected will let you know if a motherboard is a good fit for your CPU. A DDR4 memory-enabled board like the PRIME H270M, for instance, might be good for a high-thread CPU. Of course, the right parts for you depend on what you need — which you’ll only know with sufficient knowledge of computer parts.
It opens the door for more job opportunities
Software development isn’t just limited to webpages, mobile applications, and other device-native programs. It can also extend to embedded systems, operating systems, assembly systems, and other hardware-related fields. Even the compilers you rely on so much were made by a software engineer proficient with computing systems. Therefore, familiarizing yourself with hardware and its languages will open your doors to a ton of opportunities that you may have never gotten the chance to work on.
If you want to become a better software engineer, consider broadening your hardware knowledge. You don’t need to go very in-depth, especially if it’s your first time. Focus on the basics, like computer architecture and assembly languages. Eventually, you can start looking into schematics and hardware programming tools like Rust.
For more software development guides, be sure to check out some of the other posts on the blog.
This post was written by Connie Campbell.
Connie Campbell may be a tech writer during the day, but she’s an avid student at night. Double majoring in Computer Science, Connie has big dreams of starting her own SaaS business one day with help from her older brother.
