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Embedded Systems Introduction

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed for specific tasks, contrasting with general-purpose computers that handle a variety of applications. The document outlines the history, classifications, applications, and core components of embedded systems, including microprocessors, microcontrollers, and communication interfaces. Key characteristics include real-time operation, energy efficiency, and reliability, making them essential in fields like automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

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13 views6 pages

Embedded Systems Introduction

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed for specific tasks, contrasting with general-purpose computers that handle a variety of applications. The document outlines the history, classifications, applications, and core components of embedded systems, including microprocessors, microcontrollers, and communication interfaces. Key characteristics include real-time operation, energy efficiency, and reliability, making them essential in fields like automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

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blazingsword40
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Introduction to Embedded Systems

### Introduction to Embedded Systems

#### Embedded Systems vs. General-Purpose Computer Systems


- **Embedded Systems** are specialized computer systems designed
to perform a specific task or set of tasks. Unlike general-purpose
computers, which can run multiple applications, embedded systems
are tailored for a particular function.
- **Examples**: Washing machines, automotive control systems,
medical devices, etc.
- **General-Purpose Computer Systems** are designed for a wide
variety of tasks. They feature high processing power and flexible
software configurations.
- **Examples**: Laptops, desktops, and servers.

#### History of Embedded Systems


- **1960s**: The Apollo Guidance Computer was one of the earliest
examples of embedded systems.
- **1970s**: Introduction of microprocessors like Intel 4004
revolutionized embedded systems.
- **1980s to Present**: Rapid advancements in microcontrollers and
sensors have expanded the application of embedded systems into
consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, and IoT.

#### Classifications of Embedded Systems


1. **Based on Performance and Functional Requirements**:
- Real-time systems (e.g., airbag systems in cars)
- Standalone systems (e.g., calculators)
- Networked systems (e.g., smart home devices)
2. **Based on Complexity**:
- Small-scale (e.g., digital watches)
- Medium-scale (e.g., industrial robots)
- Large-scale (e.g., autonomous vehicles)

#### Applications and Purpose


- **Automotive**: Engine control, anti-lock braking systems.
- **Healthcare**: Pacemakers, diagnostic imaging.
- **Consumer Electronics**: Smart TVs, smartphones.
- **Industrial Automation**: Assembly line robotics, PLCs
(Programmable Logic Controllers).
- **Purpose**: To provide high reliability, efficiency, and performance
for specific tasks at minimal cost and size.

---

### Core of Embedded Systems

#### Microprocessors and Microcontrollers


- **Microprocessors**: Designed for general-purpose processing.
- Example: Intel i7 processor used in computers.
- **Microcontrollers**: Integrated systems with CPU, memory, and
peripherals designed for embedded applications.
- Example: ATmega328 used in Arduino boards.

#### RISC and CISC Controllers


- **RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer)**: Emphasizes efficiency
with fewer instructions.
- Example: ARM Cortex processors in smartphones.
- **CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer)**: Features a larger set
of instructions for complex operations.
- Example: x86 processors in PCs.

#### Big Endian and Little Endian Processors


- Refers to the way data is stored in memory.
- **Big Endian**: Most significant byte stored first.
- Example: Motorola processors.
- **Little Endian**: Least significant byte stored first.
- Example: Intel processors.

#### Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)


- Custom-designed chips optimized for specific tasks.
- Example: Bitcoin mining ASICs.

#### Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)


- Reconfigurable hardware components.
- Example: Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs).

#### COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf)


- Pre-designed components used to reduce cost and development
time.
- Example: Raspberry Pi boards.

#### Sensors and Actuators


- **Sensors**: Detect physical changes (e.g., temperature, pressure).
- Example: Accelerometer in smartphones.
- **Actuators**: Convert electrical signals into physical action.
- Example: Servo motors in robotics.

#### Communication Interfaces


- Facilitate data transfer between system components.
- Examples: UART, I2C, SPI, CAN bus.

#### Embedded Firmware


- Software embedded within the hardware to control devices.
- Example: Firmware in a smart thermostat.

#### Other System Components


- Memory: SRAM, DRAM.
- Power Supply: Batteries, AC/DC converters.
- Real-Time Clocks: To maintain accurate time.

---

### Characteristics and Quality Attributes of Embedded Systems

#### Characteristics
1. **Real-Time Operation**: Immediate response to external events.
2. **Energy Efficiency**: Optimized for low power consumption.
3. **Reliability**: High fault tolerance.
4. **Size Constraints**: Compact design.

#### Quality Attributes


1. **Operational**:
- **Performance**: Fast execution.
- **Functionality**: Accuracy in task execution.
- **Availability**: Minimum downtime.
2. **Non-Operational**:
- **Maintainability**: Ease of upgrades and repairs.
- **Portability**: Compatibility with various platforms.
- **Scalability**: Adaptability to future needs.

---

### Example Diagram


Below is a high-level architecture of an embedded system:

1. **Input**: Sensors (e.g., temperature sensor)


2. **Processing**: Microcontroller/ASIC with embedded firmware.
3. **Output**: Actuators (e.g., motors, LED indicators).
4. **Communication Interfaces**: I2C, SPI.
5. **Power Supply**: Battery or DC source.

Sensors --> Microcontroller --> Actuators


| |
|<---- Communication Interfaces--|
^ ^
| |
Memory Power Supply

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