Topic 1

Introduction to Embedded Systems

Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this topic, the student should be able to:
1. Define what embedded systems are and recognize their prevalence in
everyday devices.
2. Explain the differences between embedded systems and general-purpose
computers.
3. Know the history of embedded systems.
4. Understand the purpose, characteristics, and classification of embedded systems.
5. Analyze real life examples of embedding the technology with human life.

Learning Discussion:

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed to perform

dedicated functions or tasks within larger systems or devices. Unlike general-purpose
computers, which can run a wide range of applications, embedded systems are
optimized to perform specific functions with a focus on efficiency, reliability, and real-time
operation. They are typically found in various electronic devices and systems, such as
consumer electronics, automotive systems, industrial machines, medical devices, and
more. They are typically found in a variety of devices and systems, including:

• Consumer Electronics: Examples include smartphones, digital cameras, smart

TVs, and home automation systems.
• Automotive: Embedded systems are used for engine control units (ECUs),
infotainment systems, navigation systems, and advanced driver assistance
systems (ADAS).
• Industrial Control: Embedded systems are crucial for controlling machines,
robots, and manufacturing processes.
• Medical Devices: Devices such as pacemakers, insulin pumps, and medical
imaging equipment rely on embedded systems for their operation.
• Aerospace and Defense: Embedded systems are used in aircraft control
systems, missile guidance systems, and military communication equipment.
• Home Appliances: Many modern home appliances, like washing machines and
refrigerators, use embedded systems to improve functionality and efficiency.
 • IOT (Internet of Things): Embedded systems are a fundamental component of
IOT devices, connecting various sensors and actuators to the internet for data
collection and control.

History of Embedded Systems

The history of embedded systems dates back several decades and has evolved
significantly over time. Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed
to perform dedicated functions or tasks within larger systems or products. Here is a brief
overview of the history of embedded systems:

1. Early Embedded Systems (1940s-1960s):

•
The earliest embedded systems were simple and mostly analog in nature,
often consisting of mechanical components and basic electronics.
• They were used in applications like early control systems, automotive
applications, and industrial automation.
2. Emergence of Microcontrollers (1970s-1980s):
• The development of microcontrollers in the 1970s marked a significant
milestone in embedded systems history.
• Microcontrollers integrated a CPU, memory, and I/O peripherals on a single
chip. Intel's 8048 and Motorola's 6800 were among the first commercially
successful microcontrollers.
• These microcontrollers found use in applications such as home appliances,
automotive control systems, and industrial machinery.
3. Growth of Microprocessors (1980s-Present):
• The 1980s saw the rise of microprocessors like the Intel 8080 and 8085, which
were more powerful than microcontrollers and began to be used in embedded
systems.
• The 1990s and 2000s saw a proliferation of increasingly powerful and
specialized microprocessors enabling the development of more complex
embedded systems.
• These systems started to appear in consumer electronics,
telecommunications equipment, medical devices, and more.
4. Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and Software (1980s-Present):
• The development of real-time operating systems (RTOS) allowed embedded
systems to perform tasks with precise timing requirements.
• Software development for embedded systems became more sophisticated,
enabling the use of high-level programming languages like C and C++.
• Embedded systems started to incorporate graphical user interfaces (GUIs)
and networking capabilities.
 5. Advancements in Connectivity (1990s-Present):
• The advent of the internet and wireless communication technologies led to
the integration of networking and connectivity features in embedded systems.
• Embedded systems began to connect to the internet, forming the basis for the
Internet of Things (IOT).
6. Miniaturization and Power Efficiency (2000s-Present):
• Ongoing advancements in semiconductor technology have enabled the
miniaturization of embedded systems while improving power efficiency.
• Smaller, more energy-efficient embedded systems have been integrated into
wearable devices, smart home appliances, and other portable applications.
7. The Rise of IOT (2010s-Present):
• The Internet of Things (IOT) has brought about a new era for embedded
systems, with billions of devices and sensors connected to the internet to
collect and share data.
• IOT has applications in various fields, including smart cities, healthcare,
agriculture, and industrial automation.
8. Embedded Systems in Autonomous Vehicles and Al (2010s-Present)
• Embedded systems play a critical role in autonomous vehicles, drones, and
robotics, where they enable real-time decision-making and control.
• The integration of artificial intelligence (Al) and machine learning in embedded
systems has led to more intelligent and adaptive devices.

The history of embedded systems is marked by continuous advancements in

hardware, software, and connectivity, enabling them to play a vital role in various
industries and technologies. As technology continues to evolve, embedded systems
are likely to become even more integral to our daily lives.

General Computing Systems vs Embedded Systems

General-purpose computing systems and embedded systems are two distinct

categories of computing systems designed for different purposes and with different
characteristics. Here's a comparison of the key differences between these two types
of systems:
Table 1: Comparison between General Purpose Computing Systems and
Embedded Systems
General Computing Embedded Systems
Systems
• Designed for a wide • Designed for specific
range of applications dedicated functions or
and tasks. tasks.
• Can run various • Usually run a single
software and application or a set of
applications, such as closely related
Purpose operating systems, functions.
productivity software, • Tailored for tasks that
games, web browsers, require reliability,
and more. efficiency, and real-
• Typically used for tasks time operation within a
that require versatility constrained
and flexibility environment.

• Have relatively high • Have limited

processing power, processing power,
memory, and storage memory, and storage
resources. resources, often
• Components are optimized for specific
designed for general functions.
computing tasks and • Hardware components
are replaceable or are often custom
Hardware upgradeable. designed or selected to
• Typically include meet the specific
standard peripherals requirements of the
like keyboards, embedded application.
displays, and network • May have minimal or
interfaces specialized user
interfaces, such as
buttons, LEDs, or small
displays
• Run full-fledged • Often run real-time
operating systems (e.g., operating systems
Windows, macOS, (RTOS) or specialized
Linux). firmware.
Software • Support a wide range of • Execute a single
software applications application or a set of
and can be tightly integrated
programmed in various functions.
 programming • Are typically
languages. programmed in low-
• Allow for multitasking level languages like C
and user interaction. or assembly Language.
• Used in desktop • Found in a wide range
computers, laptops, of devices and systems,
servers, and mobile including consumer
devices. electronics, automotive,
• Suited for tasks like web industrial automation,
browsing, word medical devices, and
Use Cases processing, gaming, 10T devices.
content creation, and • Ideal for tasks like
running diverse controlling machines,
software applications. sensors, actuators, and
providing dedicated
functions like
monitoring, control, and
data acquisition.
• Highly flexible and • Designed for a specific
versatile, allowing users function and lack the
to install and run a wide flexibility to run arbitrary
variety of software software.
Flexibility applications • Modifications or
• Can adapt to changing updates often require
requirements with hardware changes or
software updates. firmware updates.

Key Characteristics of Embedded System

Embedded systems development involves hardware design, software

development, testing, and often requires a deep understanding of the specific domain in
which they are used. It's a field that continues to evolve as technology advances,
enabling more powerful and capable embedded systems to be deployed in an ever-
expanding range of applications. Here are some of the key characteristics of embedded
systems.

• Real-Time Operation: Many embedded systems must respond to external events

or input within a specific timeframe. Real-time operating systems (RTOS) are often
used to ensure timely responses.
• Resource Constraints: Embedded systems are typically resource-constrained,
meaning they have limited processing power, memory, and storage. This
constraint drives the need for highly optimized code.
• Reliability: Embedded systems are designed for long-term, continuous operation.
They must be reliable and resistant to failures, as failures can have serious
 consequences in some applications, such as medical devices or automotive
systems.
• Efficiency: Efficiency in terms of power consumption, processing speed, and
memory usage is critical for embedded systems, as they are often battery-
powered or must meet strict energy efficiency requirements.
• Custom Hardware: Some embedded systems are built with custom hardware
components, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field
programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), to optimize performance and power
consumption.
• Programming: Embedded systems are typically programmed in low-level
languages like C or assembly language to maximize control over hardware
resources.
• Integration: These systems are integrated into a larger product or system and
may interact with other embedded systems, sensors, or software components.

Classification of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems can be classified into several categories based on various

criteria, such as their functionality, performance, and application. Here are some common
classifications of embedded systems:

• Based on Functionality:
o General-Purpose Embedded Systems: These are designed for a wide
range of applications and can be reprogrammed for different tasks. Examples
include smartphones and tablets.
o Special-Purpose Embedded Systems: These are designed for specific
tasks or functions and are not easily reprogrammed. Examples include digital
cameras, microwave ovens, and washing machines.

• Based on Performance:
• Real-Time Embedded Systems: These systems are designed to respond to
events or inputs within a specific time frame, often with strict timing
requirements. They are classified further into hard real-time and soft real-time
systems.
➢ Hard Real-Time Systems: Failure to meet a deadline can lead to
catastrophic consequences. Examples include anti-lock braking
systems in automobiles.
 ➢ Soft Real-Time Systems: Missing a deadline in these systems is
undesirable but not catastrophic. Examples include multimedia
streaming.
o Non-Rea/-Time Embedded Systems: These systems do not have strict
timing requirements and can execute tasks as resources become available.

• Based on Complexity:
o Small-Scale Embedded Systems: These systems are simple and have
limited processing power, memory, and functionality. Examples include
microcontrollers in household appliances.
o Medium-Scale Embedded Systems: These systems are more complex
and can handle a broader range of tasks. Examples include automotive
engine control units (ECUs).
o Large-Scale Embedded Systems: These are highly complex systems with
advanced features and capabilities, often found in aerospace and industrial
automation.

• Based on Hardware Characteristics:

o Microcontroller-Based Embedded Systems: These systems typically
consist of a microcontroller, which integrates a CPU, memory, and I/O
peripherals on a single chip. They are common in small-scale applications.
o Microprocessor-Based Embedded Systems: These systems use
microprocessors as their processing core and are more versatile and
powerful than microcontroller-based systems. They are found in a wide
range of applications.
o Digital Signal Processor (DSP)-Based Embedded Systems: These
systems use DSP chips optimized for processing analog signals and are
common in applications requiring real-time signal processing, such as audio
and video processing.

• Based on Application Domain:

o Automotive Embedded Systems: Found in vehicles, including engine
control units, infotainment systems, and advanced driver-assistance
systems (ADAS).
 o Industrial Embedded Systems: Used in industrial automation,
manufacturing, and process control systems.
o Consumer Electronics Embedded Systems: Found in devices like
smartphones, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
o Medical Embedded Systems: Used in medical devices such as
pacemakers, MRI machines, and patient monitoring systems.
o Aerospace and Defense Embedded Systems: Used in aircraft, satellites,
and military equipment.

• Based on Connectivity:
o IoT Embedded Systems: These systems are part of the Internet of Things
(IOT) and are designed to connect to the internet or other devices to collect
and exchange data.
o Non-IoT Embedded Systems: Embedded systems that do not have
internet connectivity and are isolated or communicate through local
networks.

These classifications help provide a framework for understanding the diverse

range of embedded systems and their applications in various industries. The choice of
classification depends on the specific criteria and context in which the systems are being
analyzed or discussed.

Purpose of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems serve a wide range of purposes and are an integral part of
modern technology. Their primary purpose is to perform dedicated functions or tasks
within larger systems or products. Here are some of the key purposes of embedded
systems:
• Automation: Embedded systems are commonly used in industrial automation
and control systems. They can control machinery, monitor processes, and make
real-time decisions to optimize production and improve efficiency.
• Real-Time Control: Many embedded systems are designed for real-time control
of devices or processes. They can respond to inputs or events with minimal
latency, making them suitable for applications like robotics, automotive control,
and medical devices.
 • Signal Processing: Some embedded systems, particularly those based on Digital
Signal Processors (DSPs), are used for real-time signal processing tasks. This
includes audio and video processing, image recognition, and filtering applications.
• Data Acquisition and Monitoring: Embedded systems are used to collect data
from various sensors and instruments. This data can be used for monitoring
environmental conditions, measuring performance, and making informed
decisions.
• Communication: Embedded systems enable communication between devices
and systems. This includes wired and wireless communication for IOT devices,
networking equipment, and telecommunications,
• User Interface: Embedded systems often provide user interfaces, ranging from
simple LED displays and buttons to complex touchscreens. They enable users to
interact with products and systems.
• Security: Embedded systems play a crucial role in security systems, including
access control, surveillance, and encryption. They can monitor and respond to
security threats in real-times

Learning Task
• Research on the Internet about the "Smart" running shoes from Adidas.
• Discuss how it becomes "smart".
• What are the features that you can add to make it smarter?