Embedded Systems Lecture Notes

Definition

• Embedded System: A computer system with a dedicated function within a larger mechanical and electrical system.

Statistics

• 98% of all processors are components of embedded systems.

Historical Example

• Apollo Guidance Computer: One of the earliest examples used for moon missions.

Examples of Embedded Systems

1. Portable Devices:
   • Digital watches
   • MP3 players
2. Large Stationary Installations:
   • Traffic lights
   • Factory controllers
3. Complex Systems:
   • Hybrid vehicles
   • MRI machines
   • Avionics
4. Medical Instruments: Used in hospitals.
5. Automotive: Car engine management systems.
6. Consumer Electronics: Digital clocks.

Technology

• Modern Embedded Systems:
  • Often based on microcontrollers (CPUs with integrated memory).
  • Ordinary microprocessors also used, especially in complex systems.

Characteristics

• Properties Compared to General-Purpose Computers:
  • Low power consumption
  • Small size
  • Rugged operating systems
  • Low per unit cost
• Limitations:
  • Limited processing resources
  • More challenging to program and interact with

Design and Optimization

• Specific Task Dedication:
  • Allows design engineers to optimize size, cost, reliability, and performance.
• Mass Production:
  • Some systems like coffee machines are mass-produced, benefiting from economies of scale.

Recap

• Embedded Systems Overview:
  • Dedicated function within larger systems.
  • Examples include traffic lights, domestic appliances, factory equipment, engine management systems, and hospital equipment.
  • Typical properties: low power consumption, small size, rugged operating ranges, and low cost per unit.