EMBEDDED SYSTEM
An Overview of Key Concepts and Applications
PRESENTED BY:
ANALISA A. MARATAS
AURLO MAXIBEL M. DARO
CLARK KENTH SUMALINOG
JOFEL RADIN
JOHNLEE WENCESLAO
MICHAEL LIBODIGO
RENAR ARES
What is an Embedded System?
• An embedded system is a specialized computer system designed to
perform dedicated functions or tasks within a larger system. Unlike
general-purpose computers, which can run a wide range of
applications, embedded systems are tailored to execute specific
applications with real-time performance requirements. They combine
hardware and software designed for a particular purpose and are
widely used in various industries, including automotive, medical,
telecommunications, consumer electronics, and industrial
automation.
Key Characteristics of Embedded Systems
•Dedicated Functionality: Embedded systems are created to perform specific
tasks or functions, often in real-time.
•Real-Time Operation: Many embedded systems must operate under stringent
real-time constraints, meaning they must process data and produce results within a
fixed time frame.
•Resource Constraints: Embedded systems are typically designed with limited
resources, including processing power, memory, and storage.
•Reliability and Stability: Given their use in critical applications (e.g., medical
devices, automotive safety), embedded systems must be reliable and stable.
•Integration with Hardware: Embedded systems often have hardware
components designed specifically for the task, such as sensors, actuators, or
controllers.
•Low Power Consumption: Many embedded systems are designed to run on low
power, as they often operate in battery-powered devices or remote locations.
Components of an Embedded System
• Hardware:
• Microcontroller (MCU): The heart of most embedded systems, responsible
for executing instructions. It integrates the processor, memory, and
input/output peripherals.
• Sensors and Actuators: Devices that interact with the physical world, such
as temperature sensors, motion detectors, or motors.
• Memory: Embedded systems use a combination of volatile (RAM) and non-
volatile (ROM, flash memory) storage to store programs and data.
• Input/Output (I/O) Interface: Interfaces like GPIO (General Purpose
Input/Output) pins, serial ports, or display interfaces that allow interaction
with external devices.
• Software:
• Firmware: Low-level software embedded directly into the hardware.
It controls and manages the hardware components.
• Operating System (if applicable): Some embedded systems use a
lightweight operating system like FreeRTOS or a real-time operating
system (RTOS) to manage tasks and scheduling.
• Application Software: Custom software designed to perform specific
tasks within the embedded system.
Types of Embedded Systems
•Stand-Alone Embedded Systems: These systems function
independently without the need for external devices. Examples include
digital watches and microwave ovens.
•Real-Time Embedded Systems: Systems that need to respond to inputs
within a specific time frame, such as airbag deployment systems in cars or
industrial control systems.
•Networked Embedded Systems: These systems communicate with
other systems over a network. Examples include smart home devices or
IoT-enabled devices.
•Mobile Embedded Systems: Found in mobile devices like smartphones,
cameras, and portable GPS systems, these systems are optimized for
portability and energy efficiency.
Applications of Embedded Systems
•Consumer Electronics: Examples include digital cameras, smart TVs, washing
machines, and gaming consoles.
•Automotive Industry: Embedded systems control safety features like airbags,
anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and engine management.
•Medical Devices: In medical equipment like pacemakers, infusion pumps, and
diagnostic instruments, embedded systems ensure precise operation and reliability.
•Telecommunications: Network routers, cell phones, and other telecommunication
devices rely heavily on embedded systems for managing communication protocols.
•Industrial Automation: Embedded systems are at the core of industrial robots,
CNC machines, and process control systems, offering precise control over
manufacturing processes.
•Aerospace and Defense: Embedded systems play a vital role in avionics, satellite
systems, and military applications, where reliability and real-time performance are
paramount.
Advantages of Embedded Systems
•Efficiency: Due to their specialized nature, embedded systems are
highly efficient in terms of processing power, energy consumption, and
cost.
•Small Size: Embedded systems can be compact and integrated into
small devices without the need for large components or complex
designs.
•Reliability: They are designed to be stable and reliable for long-term
use in critical applications.
•Cost-Effective: Since they are specialized, embedded systems can
often be produced at a lower cost compared to general-purpose
computing systems.
Challenges in Embedded Systems Design
•Complexity: Designing embedded systems can be complex due to the
need to meet both functional and performance requirements within
constrained resources.
•Real-Time Constraints: Achieving real-time performance while ensuring
system stability and efficiency is a significant challenge.
•Security: Embedded systems are increasingly connected to networks,
making them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Securing these systems from
hacking or malicious behavior is crucial.
•Limited Resources: The limited processing power, memory, and storage
capacity of embedded systems can restrict their functionality and require
careful optimization.
Conclusion
• Embedded systems are an integral part of modern technology,
affecting virtually every aspect of our daily lives. Their specialized
nature, real-time capabilities, and small form factors make them ideal
for applications where reliability, efficiency, and dedicated
functionality are essential. As technology advances, the role of
embedded systems will continue to grow, especially with the rise of
the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increasing need for connected
devices. However, designers must continue to address the challenges
of resource constraints, real-time performance, and security to fully
harness the potential of embedded systems.
References:
•Embedded Systems: Introduction to the MSP432 Microcontroller by Jonathan W. Valvano
•Embedded Systems Design by Peter Marwedel
•"What is an Embedded System?" - Embedded.com
