Definition of Embedded Computer and advantages of embedded system
The use of modern devices has made our life easy. Now with the help of these devices, we can do different tasks quickly. We are surrounded by many such devices, whether at our home, office, school/college/university, or traveling somewhere. There are countless advantages of embedded systems in our daily life.
What is an Embedded System?
The definition of an embedded computer or system looks so easy but actually, it is not. An embedded system is a microprocessor-based system that has hardware and software. It works independently or as part of a large system. This system may be complex or simple. However, it all depends on the type of task it has to perform.
Types of Embedded Systems?
The classification of embedded systems is based on their functionality and performance.
- Stand-alone Systems: These systems don’t need a computer. These devices work independently and give output on the connected devices. Washing machine is one such example or any such device that don’t require computer for its working.
- Realtime Systems: These systems are complex systems as they require computations. Therefore, they need computers. They are further classified into Soft embedded systems and hard embedded systems. Sound is the example of the soft system whereas aircraft is the example of the hard system.
- Network Controlled Systems: This system uses LAN or WAN to work. However, the connection may be wireless or wired. This system is getting popularity because it is flexible and accessible easily through a web browser. Security systems is the best example of network based embedded system.
- Mobile Embedded Systems: All systems that are portable are classified into this category. Mobile phones, calculators and laptops are the examples of these systems.
Advantages of Embedded System:
Some of the main advantages of an embedded system are:
- As already mentioned, they can either perform one function or a complex funtion. Therefore, they are cheap to design if they are to control one specific function
- Theie power consumption is low and some devices are run on batteries
- Their management is easy
- They need low microprocessor power
- Their performance is good since they are designed to perform specific function
- Portable as they are smaller in size
- It doesn’t require any date storage
- No user interface
- It can work in any environment
There are some disadvantages as well which are as follows:
- Its upgradation is hard
- Hardware limitation is a problem
- Its difficulto to troubleshoot
- Its difficult to transfer data from one device to another
Embedded System Examples:
Some of the commonly used embedded systems are:
- Washing machines
- Electrical Oven
- Air Conditioner
- Laptops
- Mobile Phones
- High-Speed gaming devices such as Xbox and PlayStation
- Auto braking system
- Music system of autos
- Vehicles suspension control
- ECG and MRI machines used in medical industry
Future Trends:
The market for embedded systems is bright in the future as well. The rapid developments in the field of machine learning, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality, will have a positive impact on its growth. According to a report published by QY research in 2018, the market value of the embedded system will rise to $105.7 billion by the end of 2025.
