Types of Embedded Systems

Types of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems can be classified into different types based on performance, functional requirements and performance of the microcontroller.

Types of Embedded systems

Embedded systems are classified into four categories based on their performance and functional requirements:

• Stand alone embedded systems
• Real time embedded systems
• Networked embedded systems
• Mobile embedded systems

Embedded Systems are classified into three types based on the performance of the microcontroller such as

• Small scale embedded systems
• Medium scale embedded systems
• Sophisticated embedded systems

Stand Alone Embedded Systems

Stand alone embedded systems do not require a host system like a computer, it works by itself. It takes the input from the input ports either analog or digital and processes, calculates and converts the data and gives the resulting data through the connected device-Which either controls, drives and displays the connected devices. Examples for the stand alone embedded systems are mp3 players, digital cameras, video game consoles, microwave ovens and temperature measurement systems.

Real Time Embedded Systems

A real time embedded system is defined as, a system which gives a required o/p in a particular time.These types of embedded systems follow the time deadlines for completion of a task. Real time embedded systems are classified into two types such as soft and hard real time systems.

Networked Embedded Systems

These types of embedded systems are related to a network to access the resources. The connected network can be LAN, WAN or the internet. The connection can be any wired or wireless. This type of embedded system is the fastest growing area in embedded system applications. The embedded web server is a type of system wherein all embedded devices are connected to a web server and accessed and controlled by a web browser.Example for the LAN networked embedded system is a home security system wherein all sensors are connected and run on the protocol TCP/IP

Mobile Embedded Systems

Mobile embedded systems are used in portable embedded devices like cell phones, mobiles, digital cameras, mp3 players and personal digital assistants, etc.The basic limitation of these devices is the other resources and limitation of memory.

Small Scale Embedded Systems

These types of embedded systems are designed with a single 8 or 16-bit microcontroller, that  may even be activated by a battery. For developing embedded software for small scale embedded systems, the main programming tools are an editor, assembler,  cross assembler and integrated development environment (IDE).

Medium Scale Embedded Systems

These types of embedded systems design with a single or 16 or 32 bit microcontroller, RISCs or DSPs. These types of embedded systems have both hardware and software complexities. For developing embedded software for medium scale embedded systems, the main programming tools are C, C++, JAVA, Visual C++, RTOS, debugger, source code engineering tool, simulator and IDE.

Sophisticated Embedded Systems

These types of embedded systems have enormous hardware and software complexities, that may need ASIPs, IPs, PLAs, scalable or configurable processors. They are used for cutting-edge applications that need hardware and software Co-design and  components which have to assemble  in the final system.

Applications of Embedded Systems:

Embedded systems are used in different applications like automobiles, telecommunications, smart cards, missiles, satellites, computer networking and digital consumer electronics.

Embedded Systems in Automobiles and in telecommunications

• Motor and cruise control system
• Body or Engine safety
• Entertainment and multimedia in car
• E-Com and Mobile access
• Robotics in assembly line
• Wireless communication
• Mobile computing and networking

Embedded Systems in Smart Cards, Missiles and Satellites

• Security systems
• Telephone and banking
• Defense and aerospace
• Communication

Embedded Systems in Peripherals  & Computer Networking

• Displays and Monitors
• Networking Systems
• Image Processing
• Network cards and printers

Embedded Systems in Consumer Electronics

• Digital Cameras
• Set top Boxes
• High Definition TVs
• DVDs