EMBEDDED SYSTEM
TYPES OF EMBEDDED SYSTEM
EMBEDDE D SYSTEM
• First, let’s get the basics out of the way and define embedded
systems. In short, they are simply a combination of
computer hardware and software tools. Specifically, the term refers to
hardware that has been embedded with a particular kind of software
to perform a concrete function.
• Embedded systems can be independent or work as part of a larger
platform, but whatever the case may be, each unit is programmed to
carry out a specific task. Often, they will be used to monitor the
performance and operations of the device they are embedded into.
Thus, helping ensure that everything works properly.
Performance and Functionality
Requirements-Based
Classification
• Standalone Embedded Systems
This type of embedded software, as the name suggests, can work by itself, without requiring a host like a computer or
processor. It simply takes input data in its digital or analog form and delivers an output that might be displayed through a
connected device.
Instruments like cameras, digital watches, and MP3 players are all examples of standalone embedded systems. They work by
themselves, without relying on a larger platform.
• Real-Time Embedded Systems
This kind of embedded software needs to deliver outputs promptly, within a particular time frame. Hence, it is often used in
time-sensitive sectors like transportation, manufacturing, and even healthcare, as all of these spheres rely on delicate processes
to perform their business.
Some examples of real-time embedded systems are aircraft or autonomous vehicle controls, traffic monitoring tools, and the
like.
Real-time embedded systems can be further broken down into “soft” and “hard” categories
Soft real-time embedded systems: temperature or humidity monitoring tools. A minor delay in the acquisition of real-time
temperature data might not be considered too critical, and obtaining the information a bit later will still be valuable.
Soft real-time embedded systems: temperature or humidity monitoring tools. A minor delay in the acquisition of real-time
temperature data might not be considered too critical, and obtaining the information a bit later will still be valuable.
• Network Embedded Systems
This type of embedded system relies on wired or wireless networks for output generation. Often, these
kinds of platforms are built on general-purpose processors and consist of various components like
sensors, controllers, and the like.
Most popular examples of network embedded systems are home or office security systems, point-of-
sale tools, and ATMs. All of these solutions rely on networks of other devices to carry out their
function. For instance, a security system includes sensors, cameras, alarms, and similar gadgets to
monitor for intrusions and alert the relevant staff.
• Mobile Embedded Systems
Finally, mobile embedded systems are those that are portable and easy to move around. Typically, they are used in different
kinds of mobile devices but naturally have some constraints when it comes to memory size.
As you can imagine, despite the memory and functionality limitations, mobile embedded systems are quite popular solely
because they work on-the-go.
Microcontroller Performance-Based
Classification
• Small-Scale Embedded Systems
These systems are designed using an 8-bit or 16-bit microcontroller and can be powered by a
battery. In this case, the processor leverages very little memory resources and works at a limited
speed.
Small-scale embedded systems are typically used in devices that have basic functions such as
temperature monitoring, simple displays, and basic input/output operations.
• Medium-Scale Embedded Systems
This category is developed with 16-bit or 32-bit microcontrollers and often with Java, C, or C++ programming languages.
Naturally, these embedded systems are faster and somewhat more complex than the small-scale ones.
For example, these systems are often used in devices that require more complex functions like digital signal processing, data
storage, and UI control.
• Sophisticated Embedded Systems
Finally, sophisticated systems work on multiple algorithms and have complex hardware and software components. Often,
they require a processor that can be configurable and allow for the programming of a logic array. These solutions are
designed using various 32-bit or 64-bit microcontrollers and require a lot of memory to perform well.
The exact amount of memory required for a given sophisticated embedded system will depend on its specific requirements
and design. In general though, it may require anywhere from a few megabytes to several gigabytes of memory.
conclusion
Whether you realize this or not, different types of embedded systems are everywhere around us and
even across the various functions of your business. Smart devices in homes, cars, hospitals,
manufacturing plants, and the like are all powered by these platforms. So, it’s only natural to spend
some time learning about them and how they can improve your company.
Today, that’s what we will be focusing on. Having delivered multiple embedded software solutions to
clients from a variety of industries, we have come face-to-face with the different types of these
platforms. Hence, we’d like to share what options are out there and what each of them might be
used for
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