INTRODUCTION TO EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

*An embedded system is a single-purpose
computer built into a larger system for the purposes of controlling and monitoring the system.

A general purpose computer (e.g. a personal computer) is defined not to be an embedded system.




*A specialized computer system that is part of a larger system or machine. Typically, an embedded system is housed on a single microprocessor board with the programs stored in ROM.



Virtually all appliances that have a digital interface -- watches, microwaves, VCR's, Cars -- utilize embedded systems. Some embedded systems include an operating system, but many are so specialized that the entire logic can be implemented as a single program.

Examples: Cell phones, D.S.TV decoders, MP3 players, ABS breaking systems, Satellite guidance avionics etc.