Quick Definition of Embedded Systems and Its Types | Applications

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Introduction

Most of the technology that we use every day operates in large part by embedded systems. All our household appliances, smartphones, and other electronic devices depend on it to work. Whether you are aware of it or not, they are everywhere around us. These platforms also power smart devices in offices, automobiles, and hospitals. Therefore, it will be beneficial to invest some time in knowing more about these useful systems. In this blog, we will discover why embedded technology is important. Know the answer by going through its types, applications, and examples. 
 

What are Embedded Systems?

They are a sort of computer system that merges into a larger system, gadget, or electronic equipment. Thus, they are a component of almost every modern technology we use today. These systems consist of a microcontroller that serves a specific purpose within a product. The only way embedded devices will work is if they get a specific signal in real-time. This is because it is a reactive component. It also uses sensors and actuators to connect with the other parts of its environment. Hence, it will only do its intended task of receiving the proper response. Furthermore, their small size, low cost, and low power use are their key features. They use a power source, communication ports, a CPU, and memory storage to work. Additionally, they need only minimal software to run and interface with other components.

Types of Embedded Systems

We can classify them according to their performance and functional requirements or the performance of their microcontroller. 

1. Performance and Functionality Requirements-Based Classification

• Standalone 

This embedded software may run independently without a host device like a computer or processor. Moreover, it only takes analog or digital input data and outputs a signal. The output signal can also be displayed through a connected device.
Examples: Cameras, digital watches, etc.

• Real-Time 

Such embedded software needs to provide outputs within a time frame. Thus, they are useful in time-sensitive sectors including healthcare and transportation. Many of these industries depend on delicate procedures to run their operations.
Example: Traffic monitoring tools

• Network

They depend on wired or wireless networks to generate output. These platforms also have many parts, like sensors and controllers. Additionally, they are built on general-purpose CPUs.
Example: ATMs

• Mobile 

Mobile embedded systems are easy to move around. They have some memory size limits because they are present in many types of mobile devices.
Example: Digital cameras

2. Microcontroller Performance-Based Classification

• Small Scale

These embedded control systems can run on a battery and are created using microcontrollers with 8- or 16-bit resolution. Thus, the processor only uses a small amount of memory and operates at a slow pace.
Example: devices with basic functions like temperature monitoring and simple displays.

• Medium Scale

They use programming languages like Java, C, or C++, and 16-bit or 32-bit microcontrollers. Thus, they are faster but a little more complicated than the small-scale ones.
Example: devices that need more complex functions like digital signal processing and data storage. 

• Sophisticated 

These systems use many algorithms. They also have complex hardware and software architectures. So, they need a configurable processor that allows for the programming of a logic array. Moreover, they also need a lot of memory to work properly. Example: devices that need complex computations like robotics

Applications of Embedded Systems

1. Automotive Vehicles

Modern automobiles can perform many tasks inside the vehicle via embedded devices. 

2. Mobile Phones 

Mobile phones are made up of various embedded systems that control the graphical user interface. Moreover, these systems also manage operating systems, cameras, audio players, and microphones.

3. Medical Equipment

Medical equipment that needs repetitive functions like sensing and mechanism control uses complex embedded devices. 

4. Industrial Machinery

The majority of industrial gear is automated. Thus, embedded technologies are essential for getting machines to carry out precise, repetitive activities.

5. Telecommunications 

Embedded devices are present in all different communication processes. From basic parts of phones and other devices up to aspects of telecommunication networks.

Embedded Systems Examples

1. Elevators 

We need to move the elevator up and down, open and close the doors, and connect with the elevator's control system. Thus, modern elevators use embedded techniques and devices to regulate and monitor functions.

2. GPS

Using satellites and receivers, this navigation system synchronizes information about position, time, and speed. The receiver or device that receives the data has an inbuilt embedded technology. It allows the use of a global positioning system. 

3. Automatic washing machines 

Another use of these systems is in automatic washing machines. They help to regulate the timing and order of the wash cycle. Hence, you get proper cleaning of clothes.

4. Automatic sprinkler systems 

Another use of embedded system is an automatic sprinkler system. It automatically waters lawns, gardens, and other landscaping features. However, it uses a network of underground pipes and valves connected to a central control unit.

5. Automatic door locks 

Only those with the proper credentials may enter a building or room because of automatic door locks. Here also, these systems play a role in governing door lock movement.
 

Advantages of Embedded Control Systems 
 

• These systems carry out the same specific purpose throughout their lifespan. A washing machine will only ever perform its intended function.
• These systems also complete the work in a specific amount of time. 
• They are compact, use less power to operate, and have reasonable prices.
• They offer real-time data and control capabilities. Thus, they are improving the effectiveness, convenience, and safety of our lives.
   

Conclusion
 

In conclusion, this blog focuses on embedded systems, their applications, and examples. Regardless of the circuit complexity, these systems are essential. Thus, many types of equipment, devices, and industrial control systems use them. Moreover, there are many advantages of a system that repeats a task while consuming little power or memory. Also, this demand will rise as automation in various fields becomes more important.