How to Recognize an Embedded Systems?
Tags: emeddedsystem, tutorial, recognizeembeddedsystems
Published: 2022-10-14 10:22:03

An electronic device with software that is integrated into computer hardware is called an embedded system. It can be programmed or not, depending on the application. A method of functioning, arranging, and carrying out one or more tasks in accordance with a set of rules is referred to as an embedded system. In an embedded system, every component comes together and functions as a whole in accordance with the software. 

Numerous goods, such as microwaves, washing machines, printers, cars, cameras, etc., are examples of embedded systems. Microprocessors, microcontrollers, and processors like DSPs are all used in these systems. An overview of the definition and categories of embedded systems is provided in this article.

## What is an Embedded System?

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To accomplish a specific task, either on its own or as a component of a larger system, an embedded system combines computer hardware and software based on a microprocessor. An IC built to perform computing for real-time processes is at the heart of the system.

Interfaces can range from being completely absent to being very complicated GUI, from a sole microcontroller to a set of processors with associated networks and peripherals. Embedded systems' levels of complexity change dramatically in response to the specific demands of their intended use cases.

Applications for embedded systems include digital watches, hybrid cars, microwaves, avionics, and more. Embedded systems consume up to 98% of all produced microprocessors.

## Characteristics of Embedded Systems

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They are task-specific, which is the key attribute of embedded systems.  The following are the [embedded systems characteristics](https://www.theengineeringprojects.com/2021/06/characteristics-of-embedded-systems.html):
- It comprises of software, hardware, and firmware.
- It is built for specific jobs rather than general purpose, so they can be embedded within a bigger system to carry out a predetermined purpose.
- It can either be based on microprocessors or microcontrollers, and they're both PCs that provide the system's computing power.
- Sensors and real-time computations are commonplace in internet-connected, hands-free devices known as IoT.
- It can differ in function and complexity, which has an impact on the software, firmware, and hardware they employ; and
- They are frequently forced to complete their task under time pressure to maintain the health of the bigger system.

## Structure of Embedded Systems

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Although embedded systems' complexity varies, they typically have three key components:

- **Hardware:** To put it simply, microcontrollers and microprocessors form the backbone of the hardware of embedded systems. A microprocessor is a type of integrated circuit that contains a CPU and often other fundamental computer components, including memory chips and DSPs. All of the parts are housed on a single chip in microcontrollers.
- **Firmware and software:** There are different levels of complexity for embedded software. Yet, most embedded IoT devices and industrial-grade microcontrollers only run lightweight, low-memory applications.
- **Real-time operating system:** Particularly for smaller-scale systems, these aren't usually present in embedded systems. By controlling the software and establishing guidelines for program execution, RTOSes specify how the system functions.

A fundamental embedded system would have the following hardware components:

- Physical information is translated into an electrical signal by sensors.
- A digital signal can be created from an analog one using an analog-to-digital (A-D) converter.
- Digital signals are processed by processors and stored in memory.
- The processor sends digital data to a D-A converter, which then converts it into analog signals.
- Actuators select the appropriate output by comparing it to memory-stored output.
- The processor converts the information from the processor's readable input, which the sensor reads from external sources, into meaningful output for the embedded system.

## Types of Embedded Systems

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There are some fundamental types of embedded systems, and each has unique functional needs. They include:

- **Mobile embedded systems** are compact systems made to be carried around. This can be seen in [digital cameras](https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/d/digicame.htm).
- **Networked embedded systems** have a network connection and send output to other systems. POS systems and home security systems are a couple of examples.
- **Standalone embedded systems** are independent from the host system. Similar to every embedded system, they carry out a certain function. In contrast to other embedded systems, they are not always a part of a host system. An application of this would be an MP3 player or calculator.
- **Real-time embedded systems** give the desired result in a predetermined amount of time. They frequently perform time-sensitive jobs, making them useful in the medical, military, and industrial fields. An illustration of this would be a traffic control system.

Embedded systems can also be divided into groups based on how well they perform:

- **Small-scale embedded systems** frequently rely only on an 8-bit microcontroller.
- **Medium-scale embedded systems** utilize a bigger (16–32 bit) microcontroller and connect them frequently.
- **Sophisticated-scale embedded systems** frequently employ multiple methods, increasing software and hardware complexity and sometimes necessitating a configurable CPU and/or programmable logic array.

There are a number of typical embedded system software architectures, which are essential as embedded systems expand and become bigger and more intricate. These consist of:

- **Simple control loop call subroutines** that control a particular area of the hardware or embedded software.
- **Interrupt controlled systems** have a primary loop and a secondary loop. Tasks are initiated by loop interruptions.
- **Cooperative multitasking** consists primarily of a basic control loop embedded in a software interface.
- **Preemptive multitasking or multithreading** is frequently used with an [RTOS](https://www.highintegritysystems.com/rtos/what-is-an-rtos/) and has mechanisms for job switching and synchronization.

## Conclusion
A hardware and software setup created specifically for an embedded system's purpose. Additionally, embedded systems may operate as part of a bigger system. The systems may be programmable or may only perform certain functions.