Embedded System

• Microcontrollers - CPU with additional RAM and ROM and other peripherals (input/output devices) embedded into a single chip.
• Microprocessor - Integrated circuit with the CPU only
• Embedded System: combination of hardware and software is designed to carry out a specific set of tasks.
• System on Chips (SoC) - microprocessor with I/O ports, storage and memory
• Process of Embedded Devices -

  • Input from the user is sent to the microprocessor (ADC needed if the data is analogue)
  • Data from the user interface is also sent to the microprocessor
  • The microprocessor then sends signals to actuators which are the output
• Programmable devices have two methods of updating

  • Connecting the device to a computer and downloading the update
  • Updating automatically via a satellite, cellular or Wi-Fi link
• Using embedded systems:

  • Advantages:
  • Small in size => easily fit into devices
  • Low cost to make
  • Controlled remotely
  • Requires very little power
  • Very fast reaction to changing input
  • Dedicated to one task only
  • Disadvantages:
  • Difficult to upgrade
  • The interface can be confusing sometimes
  • Troubleshooting is a specialist’s job
  • Often thrown away (difficult to upgrade, faults hard to find)
  • Increased garbage (thrown away)
  • Any computerised system is prone to attacks
• Applications of Embedded devices

  • GPS systems
  • Security Systems
  • Vending Machines
  • Washing Machines
  • Oven
  • Microwave