Basics Of Embedded System and Applications

An embedded system is one kind of a computer system mainly designed to perform several tasks like to access, process, store and also control the data in various electronics-based systems. Embedded systems are a combination of hardware and software where software is usually known as firmware that is embedded into the hardware. One of its most important characteristics of these systems is, it gives the o/p within the time limits. Embedded systems support to make the work more perfect and convenient. So, we frequently use embedded systems in simple and complex devices too. The applications of embedded systems mainly involve in our real life for several devices like microwave, calculators, TV remote control, home security and neighborhood traffic control systems, etc. Please follow the below link for Embedded system basics; block diagram, types, and applications.

Embedded System Basics

The embedded system basics are the combination of embedded system hardware and embedded system software.

Embedded System Hardware

An embedded system uses a hardware platform to perform the operation. Hardware of the embedded system is assembled with a microprocessor/microcontroller. It has the elements such as input/output interfaces, memory, user interface and the display unit. Generally, an embedded system comprises of the following

• Power Supply
• Memory
• Processor
• Timers
• Output/Output circuits
• Serial communication ports
• SASC (System application specific circuits)

Embedded System Software

The software of an embedded system is written to execute a particular function. It is normally written in a high-level setup and then compiled down to offer code that can be stuck within a non-volatile memory in the hardware. An embedded system software is intended to keep in view of the following three limits

• Convenience of system memory
• Convenience of processor’s speed
• When the embedded system runs constantly, there is a necessity to limit power dissipation for actions like run, stop and wake up.

RTOS (Real Time Operating System)

A system which is essential to finish its task and send its service on time, then only it said to be a real time operating system. RTOS controls the application software and affords a device to allow the processor run. It is responsible for managing the different hardware resources of a personal computer and also host applications which run on the PC.

This operating system is specially designed to run various applications with an exact timing and a huge amount of consistency. Particularly, this can be significant in measurement & industrial automation systems where a delay of a program could cause a safety hazard.

Memory and Processors

The different kinds of processors used in an embedded system include Digital Signal Processor (DSP), microprocessor, RISC processor, microcontroller, ASSP processor, ASIP processor, and ARM processor. The different types of memories of an embedded system are given in the below chart.

Embedded System Characteristics

• Generally, an embedded system executes a particular operation and does the similar continually. For instance: A pager is constantly functioning as a pager.
• All the computing systems have limitations on design metrics, but those can be especially tight. Design metric is a measure of an execution features like size, power, cost and also performance.
• It must perform fast enough and consume less power to increase battery life.
• Several embedded systems should constantly react to changes in the system and also calculate particular results in real time without any delay. For instance, a car cruise controller; it continuously displays and responds to speed & brake sensors. It must calculate acceleration/de-accelerations frequently in a limited time; a delayed computation can consequence in letdown to control the car.
• It must be based on a microcontroller or microprocessor based.
• It must require a memory, as its software generally inserts in ROM. It does not require any secondary memories in the PC.
• It must need connected peripherals to attach input & output devices.
• An Embedded system is inbuilt with hardware and software where the hardware is used for security and performance and Software is used for more flexibility and features.

Embedded System Applications

The applications of an embedded system basics include smart cards, computer networking, satellites, telecommunications, digital consumer electronics, missiles, etc.

• Embedded systems in automobiles include motor control, cruise control, body safety, engine safety, robotics in an assembly line, car multimedia, car entertainment, E-com access, mobiles etc.
• Embedded systems in telecommunications include networking, mobile computing, and wireless communications, etc.
• Embedded systems in smart cards include banking, telephone and security systems.
• Embedded Systems in satellites and missiles include defense, communication, and aerospace
• Embedded systems in computer networking & peripherals include image processing, networking systems, printers, network cards, monitors and displays
• Embedded Systems in digital consumer electronics include set-top boxes, DVDs, high definition TVs and digital cameras

Thus, this is all about the basics of embedded system basics and applications. We all know that embedded systems are extremely fabulous systems that play a vital role in many applications like equipment, industrial instrumentation, etc. Furthermore, any doubts regarding this concept or to implement embedded system projects, please give your feedback, suggestions, and comments in the comment section below. Here is a question for you, what are the different types of an embedded systems are available in the market?