Embedded Systems: Understanding and Applications

1. What are embedded systems?

Embedded systems are electronic systems that combine computer hardware and software designed to perform specific functions. Such systems typically have limited resources and are optimized for specific tasks. Embedded systems exist in various forms in our daily lives, being utilized in diverse areas ranging from smartphones and home appliances to automobiles and medical equipment.

Embedded systems are typically based on microprocessors or microcontrollers. These play a core role in the system by collecting data from various input devices (e.g. sensors) and processing it to control specific output devices (displays, motors, etc.).

Furthermore, since embedded systems are designed to perform specific tasks, their performance and functionality can vary greatly depending on the application. For example, automotive embedded systems are designed to enable safety features for drivers, while medical equipment embedded systems perform functions necessary for patient health monitoring and diagnostics.

2. Characteristics of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems have the following characteristics:

• Application Specific: Embedded systems are designed for specific tasks and thus their performance and functionality can vary greatly depending on the application.
• Limited Resources: Embedded systems typically have limited memory and processing capabilities. This helps minimize system size and cost.
• Real-time Operation: Many embedded systems require real-time operation, meaning tasks must be completed within a specific time frame.
• Built-in Software: The software in an embedded system is usually built into the system and cannot be modified by users.

Since embedded systems are designed for specific tasks, their performance and functionality can vary greatly depending on the application. For instance, automotive embedded systems enable driver safety features, while medical equipment embedded systems perform necessary health monitoring and diagnostics functions.

Furthermore, embedded systems have limited resources. This helps minimize system size and cost. For example, smartphones have limited battery life, thus requiring efficient power management to maximize battery life.

Lastly, embedded systems often require real-time operation, meaning tasks must be completed within strict time constraints. This is especially important for real-time systems like automobiles and aircraft, where task delays can have serious consequences.

3. Basic Structure and Operation of Embedded Systems

The basic structure of embedded systems consists of three key components: the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output devices.

The central processing unit (CPU) acts as the "brain" of the system, handling all computations and data processing. The CPU can come in the form of a microprocessor or microcontroller.

Memory refers to the space where data and instructions are stored. This typically comes in two forms: RAM and ROM. RAM is used as temporary data storage while ROM stores initialization code executed during system boot.

Input/output devices provide interfaces between the system and the outside world. These can take various forms including sensors, actuators, and communication ports.

These components are connected to each other via a system bus which carries data, address, and control signals.

4. Relationship Between IoT and Embedded Systems

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to systems where physical devices are interconnected via networks to exchange data. Most IoT devices consist of embedded systems.

IoT devices contain built-in sensors, actuators, cameras, GPS, and various communication capabilities. Such devices collect data from the environment and analyze it or transmit it to remote servers to provide services.

For example, smart home systems have multiple IoT devices connected to automatically control home lighting, temperature, security, etc. Such systems learn user patterns and help provide optimal environments or save energy accordingly.

Therefore, IoT can be seen as an evolved stage of embedded systems, with the two technologies being closely interrelated.

5. Some Practical Application Areas of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems exist in various everyday forms and are utilized in areas including:

• Home Appliances: TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners and other home appliances all use embedded systems, providing users with diverse functionality for convenience.
• Automobiles: Modern cars employ various embedded systems to ensure driver safety and enhance the driving experience. Examples include anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability program (ESP), and adaptive cruise control (ACC).
• Medical Equipment: Embedded systems are extensively used in the medical field, e.g. MRI scanners, cardiac pacemakers, insulin pumps.
• Communications: Communication devices including smartphones, routers, modems all utilize embedded systems.