An embedded system is a small piece of computer software that can be integrated into a larger device, system or machine to aid with programming. Embedded systems are used to control devices such as consumer electronics, automobiles, medical devices, and mobile devices.
Here, we will explore more around embedded systems and their uses.
What Are Embedded Systems?
An embedded system is a combination of computer hardware, firmware and software designed for a specific function.
Embedded systems contain a microprocessor, memory, and input/output (I/O) devices. All will have a dedicated use within a larger system.
While embedded systems are in essence computing systems, they can range from having no user interface (UI) on devices designed to perform a single task, to having more complex user interfaces, for example, in mobile devices. Some embedded systems may also use remote interfaces too. Some may have no direct user interface, like an airbag deployment system in a car.
What Do Embedded Systems Do?
Embedded systems function as one part of a complete device. They’re cost-effective and do not consume a lot of power. They comprise a processor, power supply, and memory and communication ports.
Embedded systems will use the communication ports to transmit data between the processor and other embedded systems within a device. The processor then interprets this data using software that is stored in the device memory. The software is usually highly specific to the function that the embedded system serves.
What Are The Primary Functions Of An Embedded System?
Often, embedded systems use a real-time operating system (RTOS) to schedule its operation.
Embedded system designers will use compilers, assemblers and debuggers to aid with the development of specific embedded system software.
Types Of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems are used in a wide range of industries in many different kinds of technologies. Some examples include:
- Automotive – Modern cars, planes and trains commonly consist of many embedded systems which are designed to perform different tasks within the vehicle. Some of these embedded systems are there to perform basic utility functions, and others provide entertainment or user-facing functions. As modern transportation innovates, the number of embedded systems needed to support the systems in place increases. Some embedded systems in automobiles include cruise control, backup sensors, suspension control, navigation systems, alarm systems and airbag systems.
- Medical Devices – Medical devices and equipment also contain embedded systems such as sensors and control mechanisms. Medical equipment must be user-friendly so that human health isn’t put at risk by preventable machine mistakes. This means these systems often include a more complex operating system and user interface that is designed for the appropriate uses. For this reason, medical devices often go through large amounts of embedded testing.
- Industrial – Industrial machines often have embedded automation systems that perform specific monitoring and control functions, such as sensors. These systems can also be subject to a large amount of embedded testing.
- Health & Fitness trackers – Wearable fitness devices usually contain embedded systems that collect data on the user such as heart rate, blood and oxygen levels and number of steps the user has taken. These kinds of embedded systems will often transport data sets back to other embedded systems for the user to be able to access the collected data.
- Mobile Devices – These consist of many embedded systems, including software and firmware interfaces, operating systems (OSes), cameras, microphones, and Universal Serial Bus I/O modules.
What Are The Characteristics Of Embedded Systems?
The main characteristics of an embedded system is that they’re specifically designed for a particular task. However, embedded systems will often include the following additional characteristics:
- They can be embedded in a larger system to perform a specific function
- They often use ASIC and FPGA SoCs.
- They’re often used for sensing and real-time computing (such as in IoT devices).
- They’re often used to perform a specific function under a tight time constraint to aid the appropriate function of the larger system or device.
- They can be either microprocessor-based or microcontroller-based.
- They can vary in complexity and function.
Why Are Embedded Systems Important?
Embedded systems are vital as they power and control a vast array of devices and systems, from everyday appliances to industrial machinery. They help in improving efficiency, reliability, accuracy and safety in various applications.
Embedded Systems Role In Software
Embedded systems play an important role by controlling and managing the functionality of devices and machines that are not typically thought of as computers, such as appliances, vehicles, and medical equipment.
Embedded software is specialized for the specific hardware devices it operates on, and often operates under real-time constraints.
Embedded Systems At Bermondsey Electronics
At Bermondsey Electronics, we specialize in developing robust embedded systems, software and firmware solutions, tailored to your specific application needs. Whether you’re building IoT devices or industrial automation systems, whatever your industry, our expertise ensures your embedded systems boot quickly, securely, and efficiently.
