What is Embedded System?
An embedded system is a system that has software embedded in it. This software is typically embedded in the hardware of the system, and it is designed to perform a specific task. Embedded systems are found in a wide range of devices, including cell phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, and more.
Embedded systems are designed to be small and efficient. They often have a limited amount of memory and processing power. This is because they are designed to perform a specific task, and they do not need the extra resources to handle other tasks.
Embedded systems are typically designed to be used in a specific environment. This environment may be a specific operating system, or it may be a specific piece of hardware. For example, an embedded system in a digital camera is designed to work with the camera’s hardware and the software that is used to control the camera.
Embedded systems are often used in devices that require real-time responses. This means that the system must be able to respond to input immediately. For example, a system that is controlling a robot arm must be able to respond to the robot’s movements quickly.
Requirements for an Embedded System
An embedded system is embedded as part of a complete device often including hardware and mechanical parts. Embedded systems control many devices in common use today.
The main requirements for an embedded system are:
- A processor
- Memory
- Input/output (I/O)
- An operating system (OS)
A processor is the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer. It interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate a computer. The type of processor used in an embedded system is often a microprocessor. A microprocessor is a special type of processor that incorporates the functions of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) on a single integrated circuit (IC), or microchip.
Memory is used to store data and instructions. The type of memory used in an embedded system is often read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). ROM is a type of non-volatile memory that stores data and instructions that cannot be modified or erased. RAM is a type of volatile memory that stores data and instructions that can be modified or erased.
Input/output (I/O) is used to receive data from, and send data to, external devices. The type of I/O used in an embedded system is often a serial port, parallel port, or universal serial bus (USB). A serial port is a type of I/O that uses a single wire to send and receive data. A parallel port is a type of I/O that uses multiple wires to send and receive data. A USB is a type of I/O that uses a single wire to send and receive data.
An operating system (OS) is a set of software programs that manage the hardware and software resources of a computer. The type of OS used in an embedded system is often a real-time OS (RTOS). An RTOS is a type of OS that is designed to meet the real-time requirements of an embedded system.
Types of Embedded Systems
There are many different types of embedded systems. Some common types of embedded systems are:
Microcontrollers: A microcontroller is a type of embedded system that is used in devices that require a low level of control. Microcontrollers are often used in devices that need to respond quickly to input. They are also used in devices that need to be small and efficient.
DSPs: A DSP is a type of embedded system that is used in devices that require signal processing. DSPs are often used in audio and video devices.
FPGAs: An FPGA is a type of embedded system that is used in devices that require a high level of flexibility. FPGAs are often used in devices that need to be able to be reconfigured to perform different tasks.
ASICs: An ASIC is a type of embedded system that is used in devices that require a high level of performance. ASICs are often used in devices that need to be able to perform complex tasks. how this can be used in the future.
Advantages of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems control many devices in common use today. 98% of all microprocessors are manufactured as components of embedded systems.
One advantage of an embedded system is that it is dedicated to one specific task, which results in improved performance. For example, a traffic light control system must be able to change the light sequence quickly and reliably in response to changing conditions, such as the arrival of a fire truck or ambulance.
Another advantage of embedded systems is that they are often more reliable than general-purpose computers because they are designed for a specific purpose. For example, an embedded system in an industrial robot may be required to operate continuously for years without failures, whereas a desktop computer used for word processing is not required to have the same level of reliability.
Embedded systems are often designed to be small and consume less power than general-purpose computers. This is because they are often used in portable devices such as mobile phones and digital watches.
The cost of an embedded system can be a fraction of the cost of a general-purpose computer with the same capabilities. This is because embedded systems are often mass-produced, and the hardware and software components are often designed and manufactured by different companies.
Disadvantages of Embedded Systems
One disadvantage of embedded systems is that they are often difficult to program and test. This is because they are designed to perform a specific task and they often have limited resources such as memory and storage.
Another disadvantage of embedded systems is that they are inflexible. This is because they are designed to perform a specific task and it is often difficult or impossible to change the program to perform a different task.
A disadvantage of embedded systems is that they can be difficult to update. This is because they are often located in difficult-to-reach places, such as inside a TV or car engine.
Overall, embedded systems have many advantages over general-purpose computers. They are dedicated to one specific task, which results in improved performance. They are often more reliable than general-purpose computers. They are designed to be small and consume less power. And the cost of an embedded system can be a fraction of the cost of a general-purpose computer with the same capabilities.