Embedded computer

Published: 23 Dec

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Do you find it hard to understand how your devices work? Many everyday items, like phones and cars, have embedded computers inside. These small computers handle specific tasks. They make devices smarter and easier to use.

Let’s explore the full details of embedded computers together.

What is an embedded computer?

An embedded computer is a small, specialized computer built into other devices. It helps these devices perform specific tasks. Unlike regular computers, it doesn’t have a screen or keyboard. You can find embedded computers in many things, like microwave ovens, cars, and medical equipment. They work silently in the background, making devices smarter and more efficient.

 History of Embedded Computers

The idea of embedded computers started in the s when people wanted small computers to control machines. The first embedded computer, called the Apollo Guidance Computer, was used in the Apollo spacecraft to help astronauts land on the moon in . In the s, embedded systems became smaller and cheaper, allowing them to be added to more devices like cars, home appliances, and phones. Big milestones include the invention of microcontrollers in the s and the use of embedded computers in smartphones in the s. Today, they are found in almost everything we use daily.

How Do Embedded Computers Work?

Embedded computers work by combining hardware and software to perform specific tasks. Hardware is the physical part, like the tiny chips and sensors, while software is the program that gives instructions. Together, they help devices like microwaves, cars, and phones work properly. These computers handle only one job at a time but do it efficiently.

Here’s how they work in detail:

1. Hardware Part: The hardware includes a small chip, sensors, and circuits. These collect and process data.
2. Software Part: The software is a program that tells the embedded computer what to do, like turning on a motor or showing a message.
3. Take Input: Sensors or buttons send information to the embedded computer.
4. Process Data: The hardware processes the input based on the instructions in the software.
5. Control Output: The computer sends commands to control the device, like heating food or playing a sound.
6. Repeat Tasks: The process keeps repeating as long as the device is running.

Types of Embedded Computers

Embedded computers come in different types based on their size, performance, and tasks. Some are simple and handle small jobs, like controlling a microwave. Others are powerful and manage complex tasks, like running a car or managing a factory. Each type of embedded computer is designed for specific devices to make them work better and smarter.

Here are the main types of embedded computers:

1. Standalone embedded computer: It works without needing another system, like a digital camera.
2. Real-Time Embedded Computer: It performs tasks instantly, like controlling traffic lights.
3. Networked embedded computer: It connects to other devices or systems, like a smart home system.
4. Mobile Embedded Computer: It is used in portable devices like smartphones and tablets.
5. Small-Scale Embedded Computer: It handles simple tasks with low power, like in toys or remote controls.
6. Medium-Scale Embedded Computer: It manages more complex tasks like washing machines or cars.
7. Large-Scale Embedded Computer: It is powerful and used in advanced systems, like airplanes or medical machines.

Parts of Embedded Computers

Embedded computers are made up of different parts that work together to perform specific tasks. These parts include both hardware and software components. The hardware is the physical part, like the microcontroller and sensors. The software gives instructions on how the hardware should work. All of these parts are connected to make the embedded system function properly. Without any of these parts, the system would not work.

Here are the main parts of an embedded computer:

1. Microcontroller: It is the brain of the embedded system, controlling everything.
2. Memory: It stores data and instructions needed by the system to work.
3. Sensors: They collect information from the environment, like temperature or motion.
4. Actuators: These parts act like turning on a motor or light.
5. Power Supply: It provides energy to the embedded system to work properly.
6. Input/Output Interfaces: The system can communicate with other devices, like buttons or screens.

Features of Embedded Computers

Embedded computers are designed to perform specific tasks. They are small, efficient, and often used in devices like smartphones, cars, and appliances. These computers have features that make them different from regular computers.

Here are the main features of embedded computers:

1. Small Size: They are small and can fit into devices with limited space.
2. Real-Time Performance: They work quickly and respond to input right away.
3. Low Power Consumption: They use very little energy, helping save power.
4. Application-Specific Design: These computers are designed to do one specific job, not many different tasks.

Uses of Embedded Computers

It is a small system designed to perform specific tasks. They are used in many devices to improve performance and make tasks easier.

Here are the uses of embedded computers. For real-world applications, check out these examples of embedded computers.

• Smartphones: They help manage apps and calls.
• Cars: They control engine functions and safety systems.
• Washing Machines: They manage washing cycles.
• Refrigerators: They control temperature and energy use.
• Medical Devices: They monitor health, like pacemakers.
• Microwaves: They control cooking times and settings.
• Cameras: They help process images and videos.
• Home Security Systems: They monitor and manage security alarms.
• Television: They control channels and settings.
• Gaming Consoles: They handle game processing and controls.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Embedded Computers

They are small, efficient systems used in devices to perform specific tasks. They offer many benefits but also have some drawbacks.

Benefits

• It uses less power, so they save energy.
• These computers are small and can fit in tiny devices.
• They are cheap, so they cost less to make.
• They work fast because they are made for specific tasks.
• They give quick results in real time.
• They last a long time and don’t need much fixing.
• It is easy to fix or maintain them, which saves time and money.

Drawbacks.

• They can do only one job.
• Upgrading them is hard.
• They can’t do many tasks at once.
• They are less powerful than normal computers.
• They may have security problems.
• Changing their tasks is difficult.
• Special skills are needed to make or fix them.
• They can become outdated.
• They are fixed in one place.
• They might stop working if not made well.

Conclusion

So, guys, it’s time to finish up! In this article, we’ve covered embedded computers in detail. They are a key part of many devices we use daily, making them faster and more efficient. I suggest exploring how embedded computers can be applied in different fields like healthcare and transportation. Want to know more? Check out our detailed guide on types of computer and dive deeper into the world of computers!

FAQs about Embedded Computers

Here are some common questions (FAQs) about embedded computers and simple, beginner-friendly answers.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website embedded module.

What is an embedded computer?

An embedded computer is a special type of computer built into a device to perform a specific task. It is small, efficient, and often works in the background. Unlike regular computers, it does not need a screen or keyboard to work.

How is an embedded computer different from a regular computer?

Regular computers can do many tasks, while embedded computers are designed to perform one specific task. Embedded systems are smaller and use less power. They are often built into other devices like smartphones or cars.

Where are embedded computers used?

Embedded computers are used in everyday devices like washing machines, cameras, and microwave ovens. They also power things like cars, medical equipment, and smart devices. Basically, they help run the functions of these devices.

What are the main parts of an embedded computer?

The main parts of an embedded computer include the microcontroller, memory, input/output interfaces, and sensors. These parts work together to make the system function. Each part helps the embedded computer perform its specific task.

Why are embedded computers so small?

Embedded computers are designed to be small so they can fit into devices with limited space. Their small size helps them be more portable and less expensive to manufacture. The smaller size also means they use less power.

Can embedded computers be upgraded?

Upgrading embedded computers can be difficult because they are custom-built for specific tasks. Some parts, like memory, can be upgraded in specific systems. However, once built, they usually don’t allow much upgrade flexibility.

What is real-time processing in embedded computers?

Real-time processing means the system can give immediate responses to inputs. This is important for devices that need quick results, like medical equipment or cars. The embedded computer must respond to changes without delay.

Are embedded computers safe from viruses?

Embedded computers are less likely to get viruses compared to regular computers, but they are not immune. Security is still important, especially for systems connected to the internet. Regular updates and good security practices help protect them.

Rukhsana Iqbal

Hi! I’m Rukhsana Iqbal, and I have a master’s degree in IT. I love helping beginners learn about computers in a fun and easy way! Here on ComputerGuideHub, I explain all the basics—like what computers are, how they work, and the different parts they have. My goal is to make computers simple and exciting for you to understand. Let’s explore the amazing world of computers together!

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Before going to the overview of Embedded Systems, Let's first know the two basic things i.e., embedded and system, and what actually do they mean. 

System is a set of interrelated parts/components which are designed/developed to perform common tasks or to do some specific work for which it has been created. 

Embedded means including something with anything for a reason. Or simply we can say something which is integrated or attached to another thing. Now after getting what actual systems and embedded mean we can easily understand what are Embedded Systems. 

What is Embedded System?

Embedded system is a computational system that is developed based on an integration of both hardware and software in order to perform a given task. It can be said as a dedicated computer system has been developed for some particular reason. But it is not our traditional computer system or general-purpose computers, these are the Embedded systems that may work independently or attached to a larger system to work on a few specific functions. These embedded systems can work without human intervention or with little human intervention. 

Components of Embedded Systems

1. Hardware 2. Software 3. Firmware

Examples of Embedded Systems

• Digital watches
• Washing Machine
• Toys
• Televisions
• Digital phones
• Laser Printer
• Cameras
• Industrial machines
• Electronic Calculators
• Automobiles
• Medical Equipment

Application of Embedded System

• Home appliances
• Transportation
• Health care
• Business sector & offices
• Defense sector
• Aerospace
• Agricultural Sector

Characteristics of an Embedded System

• Performs specific task: Embedded systems perform some specific function or tasks.
• Low Cost: The price of an embedded system is not so expensive.
• Time Specific: It performs the tasks within a certain time frame.
• Low Power: Embedded Systems don't require much power to operate.
• High Efficiency: The efficiency level of embedded systems is so high.
• Minimal User interface: These systems require less user interface and are easy to use.
• Less Human intervention: Embedded systems require no human intervention or very less human intervention.
• Highly Stable: Embedded systems do not change frequently mostly fixed maintaining stability.
• High Reliability: Embedded systems are reliable they perform tasks consistently well.
• Use microprocessors or microcontrollers: Embedded systems use microprocessors or microcontrollers to design and use limited memory.
• Manufacturable: The majority of embedded systems are compact and affordable to manufacture. They are based on the size and low complexity of the hardware.

Block Structure of Embedded System

Advantages of Embedded System

• Small size.
• Enhanced real-time performance.
• Easily customizable for a specific application.

Disadvantages of Embedded System

• High development cost.
• Time-consuming design process.
• As it is application-specific less market available. 

Top Embedded Programming Languages: Some of the programming languages used in the development of embedded systems include, Embedded C, Embedded C + +, Embedded Java, Embedded Python etc. But it completely rests on the developer which programming language he selects for the development of the embedded systems.

How does an Embedded System Work?

Embedded systems operate from the combination of hardware and software that focuses on certain operations. An embedded system at its heart has microcontroller or microprocessor hardware on which user writes the code in form of software for control of the system. Here is how it generally works:

• Hardware Layer: Some of the hardware elements that are incorporated in an embedded system include the sensor, actuator, memory, current I/O interfaces as well as power supply. These components are interfaced with the micro controller or micro processor depending up on the input signals accepted.
• Input/Output (I/O) Interfaces: They to give the system input in form of data from sensors or inputs made by the users and the microcontroller processes the data received. The processed data is then utilized to coordinate the output devices such as displays, motors or communication modules.
• Firmware: Firmware which is integrated within a system’s hardware comprises of certain instructions to accomplish a task. Such software is often used for real time processing and is tuned to work in the most optimal manner on the system hardware.
• Processing: Depending on the given software and the input data received from the system’s inputs the microcontroller calculates the appropriate output or response and manages the system’s components.
• Real-time Operation: Some of the most common systems are real time, this implies that they have the ability to process events or inputs at given time. This real time capability makes sure that the system accomplishes its intended function within stated time demands.

For instance therein an embedded system in a washing machine, the microcontroller would interface with the buttons (selections made by a user), sensors, for instance water levels, temperature and timers; it would control outputs such as motors, heaters and displays among others based on the program intended for washing cycles.

Conclusion

Therefore, the importance of embedded system in modern technology cannot be underestimated because the provide dedicated and reliable system that are efficient for specific use. This is evident from their applications in home use items such as refrigerators, bio-medical applications, and industrial applications where they offer an additional advantage to improving functionality of the many systems. Embedded systems are very important in our lives since they offer automation, enhanced performance and accuracy in our daily lives. Despite the mentioned restrictions like high development costs, and application specific solutions, the advantages clearly outweigh the mentioned drawbacks making the FPGA devices a crucial element of the present day world.

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Write components of an embedded system?

The main components of an embedded system are hardware, software, and firmware. These work together to perform a specific function or set of tasks.

What is the difference between a microcontroller and a microprocessor in embedded systems?

It can be defined as an independent and self-contained programmable control device for an operation of an embedded system, which consists of a microprocessor, RAM, ROM and ports. On the other hand a microprocessor has only a CPU and all the other memory movements and Input/Output functions are handled in other separate components.

What programming languages are used in embedded systems?

Other languages used in the development of the embedded systems are the Embedded C, Embedded C++, Embedded Java and Embedded Python. As for the language that will be used in the construction of the system the following should be taken into consideration, Complexity of the system, Performance that is required from the system and personal preference of the developer.