13-06-2009, 04:53 PM
Embedded system is a combination of computer hardware, software and, perhaps, additional mechanical parts, designed to perform a specific function.
Embedded systems are usually programmed in high level language that is compiled (and/or assembled) into an executable (€œmachine€Â) code. These are loaded into Read Only Memory (ROM) and called €œfirmware€Â, €œmicrocode€ or a €œmicrokernel€Â. The microprocessor is 8-bit or 16-bit.The bit size refers to the amount of memory accessed by the processor. There is usually no operating system and perhaps 0.5k of RAM. The functions implemented normally have no priorities. As the need for features increases and/or as the need to establish priorities arises, it becomes more important to have some sort of decision making mechanism be part of the embedded system. The most advanced systems actually have a tiny, streamlined OS running the show, executing on a 32-bit or 64-bit processor. This is called RTOS.
