Hardware Timer Default Constructor

Question

Problem: Hardware Timer Default Constructor. Solve this hands-on electronics task on EWskills.

Accepted Answer

#include 
using namespace std;

class HardwareTimer {
private:
    int frequency;
    bool enabled;
    int prescaler;

public:
    // Default constructor sets safe reset values
    HardwareTimer() : frequency(0), enabled(false), prescaler(1) {}

    void configure(int freq, int pre) {
        frequency = freq;
        prescaler = pre;
        enabled = true;
    }

    void stop() {
        enabled = false;
    }

    void print() {
        cout << "F=" << frequency
             << " P=" << prescaler
             << " EN=" << (enabled ? 1 : 0);
    }
};

int main() {
    HardwareTimer t;  // uses default constructor

    int f, p, x;
    cin >> f >> p >> x;

    t.configure(f, p);

    if (x == 0)
        t.stop();

    t.print();
    return 0;
}

Explanation & Logic Summary:

The default constructor initializes hardware timer fields to a safe reset-like state.
All members start with known values before configuration.
configure() activates the timer and sets operating parameters.
stop() disables the timer, simulating hardware shutdown behavior.

Firmware Relevance & Real-World Context:

MCU timers (STM32, AVR, ESP32, etc.) start in reset-safe states.
Constructors replicate power-on reset behavior.
Embedded firmware must avoid enabling peripherals with undefined values.
This exercise mirrors real initialization patterns for timers such as TIM, SysTick, and PWM units.

92. Hardware Timer Default Constructor