05-09-2017, 09:28 AM
05-09-2017, 02:59 PM
An embedded system is a computer system with a dedicated function within a larger mechanical or electrical system, often with constraints of real-time computing. It is embedded as part of a complete device that often includes hardware and mechanical parts. Integrated systems control many devices in common use today. Ninety-eight percent of all microprocessors are manufactured as components of embedded systems.
Examples of typically embedded computer properties compared to general purpose counterparts are low power consumption, small size, rugged operating ranges, and low cost per unit. This occurs at the price of limited processing resources, which makes them much more difficult to program and interact with. However, by building intelligence mechanisms at the top of the hardware, taking advantage of possible existing sensors and the existence of a network of embedded units, the available resources available at the unit and network level can be optimally managed. For example, intelligent techniques can be designed to manage the energy consumption of embedded systems.
Modern embedded systems are often based on microcontrollers (ie CPU with built-in memory or peripheral interfaces), but ordinary microprocessors (which use external memory chips and peripheral interface circuits) are also common, especially in poorer systems complex. In any case, the processor (s) used may be types ranging from the general purpose to those specialized in certain kinds of calculations, or even custom-designed for the application in question. A common standard class of dedicated processors is the digital signal processor (DSP).
Since the integrated system is dedicated to specific tasks, design engineers can optimize it to reduce the size and cost of the product and increase reliability and performance. Some embedded systems are mass-produced, benefiting from economies of scale.
Embedded systems range from portable devices such as digital clocks and MP3 players to large stationary facilities such as traffic lights, factory controllers and largely complex systems such as hybrid vehicles, magnetic resonance imaging and avionics. The complexity varies from low, with a single microcontroller chip, to very high with multiple units, peripherals and networks mounted inside a large chassis or enclosure.