Decoding Embedded Systems
While flashy technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality are frequently in the limelight, embedded systems, a vital component of electronic devices and systems in various industries often get ignored. Embedded systems are all around us, and we use them daily without even knowing it.
An embedded system is simply a combination of computer software and hardware designed for a specific purpose. Just like traditional non-embedded operating systems, embedded systems have permeated all corners of our society. From a simple car key fob that locks your doors or the keyless ignition that starts the car to the bank ATMs that dispense cash, these are examples of embedded systems we use without even thinking about in our daily lives.
Our world is becoming increasingly digital, connected, and automated, and these fundamental embedded technologies serve as its foundation. They are the unsung heroes that improve our experiences, efficiency, and convenience. They can be found in everything from the cell phones that keep us connected to the appliances we use in our homes.
This blog post covers:
- Definition of embedded systems
- Anatomy of embedded systems
- Recognizing an embedded system
Let’s jump right into it…
What Are Embedded Systems?
The best way to think of embedded systems is to break the two words apart.
Let’s start with a system…
A system defines a configuration where all units assemble to work according to a set of rules. Another way to characterize it is as a method of working, organizing, or completing one or more tasks in accordance with a predetermined plan.
For example, a watch is a system that displays the time. Its components must adhere to a set of rules to show the time. If one component breaks, the watch will no longer work. Thus, every system component depends on every other component.
An embedded system, as the name suggests, is a system that has been placed within something else. It may be thought of as a computer hardware system with software embedded in it. Embedded systems can operate as standalone units or as part of larger systems.
Microcontroller or microprocessor-based systems intended to perform a specific function are called embedded systems. Embedded systems control many devices in everyday use.
Some examples include:
- Smartwatches
- Air conditioning systems
- Digital cameras
- Traffic light control systems
- Barcode scanners
- Automatic doors
- Smart doorbells
- Gas station pumps
- Cars and Key Fobs
Since embedded systems typically control the physical operations of the device they are embedded within, they often have real-time computing constraints.
To sum up, embedded systems may be defined as specialized computer systems designed to accomplish one or more specific tasks.
Anatomy of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems consist of three key components that work together to enable the desired functionality of the system. These three components are:
- Hardware
- Software
- Real-time Operating System (RTOS)
Hardware
The hardware components of embedded systems include various physical components that comprise the system infrastructure. These components are built around microprocessors and microcontrollers.
Microcontrollers and microprocessors are different ways of organizing and optimizing a computing system based on a CPU. A microprocessor only consists of a Central Processing Unit (CPU), whereas a microcontroller has memory, a CPU, and I/O.
See the differences in the diagram below:
An embedded system may use either a microprocessor or a microcontroller, which provides the system’s processing power. In other words, an embedded system’s microcontroller or microprocessor powers its operation and acts as its brain.
Several other components must cooperate with the microprocessor or microcontroller for the embedded system to function as intended. These include the power supply, memory, timers and counters, communication interfaces, input/output, and electrical circuits.
Software
Embedded system software is designed exclusively for a specific device, and its objectives are far more limited than those of computer software.
Embedded software can range in complexity depending on the functions being performed. In general, the software on embedded IoT systems and industrial-grade microcontrollers is quite rudimentary – not requiring a lot of memory.
When building an embedded system, several software tools and components are essential.
These tools include:
These tools include:
- Integrated Programming Environment (IDE) or Text Editor – An IDE or text editor can write and edit source code in C and C++ programming languages. The difference is that IDEs are designed to support compiling and debugging code, whereas text editors lack these build and evaluation aspects.
- Compiler – The compiler translates high-level programming languages (e.g., C or C++) into low-level machine language to generate executable code the embedded system can run.
- Emulator – This component simulates software components, thus enabling embedded software testing on a host system. For the purpose of debugging, it also emulates the behavior of the target device.
Real-time Operating System (RTOS)
A Real-time Operating System (RTOS) is an operating system designed for real-time computing applications that process events and data within critically defined time constraints.
RTOS systems are defined by two key features: determinism, and predictability. Repeated tasks are carried out within a tight time frame – we know how long a task will take, and that the results will always be the same.
RTOS are typically used in environments where massive data or large events (mostly external to the host computer system) must be processed within certain deadlines. These short time frames are measured in tenths of a second and any delay could lead to entire system failures.
Examples of real-time operating systems include command control systems, airline traffic control, robots, heart pacemakers, and other event-driven and pre-emptive systems.
Embedded systems are essential to many technologies, such as machine-to-machine (M2M) devices and the Internet of Things (IoT). These days, nearly all smart devices use this adaptable technology in one way or another.
Recognizing an Embedded System
The main difference between general-purpose computer systems and embedded systems is that general-purpose computers are usually designed to carry out a range of computing tasks, such as word processing, web browsing, data analysis, and more. This enables users or other devices to interact with them in several ways.
In contrast, embedded systems are limited to set tasks. When creating an embedded system, manufacturers focus primarily on the objective the embedded system is designed to achieve.
| General-purpose computer system | Embedded system | |
|---|---|---|
| Description | A computer system that can be programmed to perform a large range of tasks. | A computer system designed to perform one or more predefined tasks. |
| Design | Versatile, modular, powerful. | Specialized, compact, low-power. |
| Processing power intensity | High | Low |
| Time specific | No | Yes |
| Memory requirement | Large | Small |
| Cost | High cost | Low cost |
| Size | Larger with I/O devices attached | Small with limited hardware |
| Storage capacity | Large | Small |
Conclusion
Embedded systems are the hidden workhorse inside the devices and systems that exist all around us and have done so for years.
The combination of IoT, edge computing, AI, 5G connectivity, security, sustainability, and evolving interfaces is fuelling massive innovation and redefined possibilities for embedded systems across many industries.
Those passionate about this technology are about to enter a revolutionary period as we witness new categories of embedded systems explode, shaping how we live, work, and connect with the world.
For enterprises keen on forging into unexplored future terrain, adopting these cutting-edge trends and technologies is not just the right decision, but also a tremendous opportunity. Here, a trustworthy technology partner can be critical in providing knowledge, direction, and cooperation throughout the development process. Such a partner adds experience to the design and implementation process, guaranteeing that your embedded system is innovative, secure, and performs to the highest standards.
