Inside Embedded Systems: What Do We Know About Them?

Embedded Systems: What Are They All About?

An embedded system is a compact computer with a processor, memory, and input/output units, designed to perform a specific task within a larger system. You’ll find them in everything from your car’s engine control to medical devices and even home entertainment systems. Known for their small size and efficiency, embedded systems are crucial where space, power, and cost are limited.

What’s the Magic Behind Embedded Systems in Action?

Embedded systems work by integrating hardware and software to perform specific tasks efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of how they function:

1. Hardware Components: The system includes a microprocessor or microcontroller, memory (both volatile and non-volatile), input/output interfaces, and sometimes specialized components like sensors or actuators. These are all mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB).
2. Software Instructions: The software, often called firmware, is programmed onto the hardware. This code directs the system on how to process inputs, manage data, and produce the desired output.
3. Data Processing: When the system receives input (e.g., a signal from a sensor), the processor uses the software instructions to process the data. This might involve calculations, decision-making, or communication with other components.
4. Output Generation: Based on the processing, the system generates an output. This could be anything from turning on a motor, displaying information on a screen, or sending data to another device.
5. Feedback Loop: Many embedded systems operate in a feedback loop, continuously monitoring and adjusting their output based on new inputs.

For example, in a smart thermostat, the embedded system takes temperature readings, processes the data to determine if heating or cooling is needed, and then adjusts the HVAC system accordingly.

Diverse Classes of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are grouped by performance and function into four main types:

1. Real-Time Embedded Systems: These systems prioritize speed, with some needing strict (hard real-time) or flexible (soft real-time) deadlines. For example, an airbag system in a car must deploy immediately in a crash (hard real-time).
2. Standalone Embedded Systems: These operate independently without needing a host computer, like a digital watch.
3. Networked Embedded Systems: These rely on network connections to function, such as a smart home thermostat connected to Wi-Fi.
4. Mobile Embedded Systems: These are compact and portable, like smartphones and tablets.
5. Embedded Systems in Control Systems: These systems are designed to control the operation of other systems, often in industrial or automotive applications. For example, the engine control unit (ECU) in a car monitors and controls engine functions for optimal performance.
6. Safety-Critical Embedded Systems: These are used in applications where failure could result in catastrophic consequences, such as in medical devices, aviation, or nuclear power plants. They are designed with rigorous safety and reliability standards.
7. Distributed Embedded Systems: These systems consist of multiple interconnected embedded devices that work together to perform a task. An example is a distributed sensor network used for environmental monitoring.
8. Hybrid Embedded Systems: These systems combine features from different types of embedded systems, such as a networked, real-time system in a smart factory that controls machinery and communicates with other systems.

Additionally, based on microcontroller performance, they can be classified as small-scale, medium-scale, or sophisticated, depending on the microcontroller’s processing power.

Key Pieces of Embedded Systems

Hardware Components:

• Power Supply: Provides the necessary power, either from an adapter or battery. Example: A 5V power supply in a smartwatch.
• Microcontroller/Microprocessor: Acts as the brain, controlling operations. Example: A microcontroller in a washing machine manages wash cycles.
• Memory: Stores data and code. RAM (temporary) and ROM (permanent) handle different tasks.
• Timers/Counters: Manage delays and event tracking. Example: A timer delays the start of an appliance.
• I/O Interfaces: Allow interaction with other systems. Example: Sensors provide input, and displays show output.
• Communication Interfaces: Enable connectivity, such as USB or Bluetooth.
• Electrical Circuits: Components like PCBs, resistors, and capacitors ensure smooth operation.

Software Components:

• Text Editor: Writes code in languages like C/C++.
• Compiler/Assembler: Converts code into machine language.
• Emulator: Simulates the system to test performance.
• Link Editor: Combines code modules into one executable file.
• Debugger: Identifies and fixes errors in the code.

Common Embedded Example:

In a digital camera, the microcontroller processes inputs from the shutter button, the memory stores images, and the output interface displays the photo on the screen. The software ensures everything runs smoothly, from capturing to saving the image.

At UnioTech we work full time with embedded systems. Let’s check some cases:

• Boat Monitoring Systems. The Tattlebox is a wireless boat monitoring system that alerts owners via push notifications to critical issues like power loss, intruders, or low batteries. It’s easy to set up, requiring no wiring, and offers real-time tracking from anywhere. With two devices—the TBOX IoT hub and the TMATE for remote control—the system consumes ultra-low power and includes built-in sensors for motion, sound, and visuals, offering more features than most competitors. If you want to know more aboutthis project just check our portfolio.

• Animal Alert System. The Animal Monitoring and Alert System is a cutting-edge solution for tracking animal well-being in the field. Lightweight trackers on animals gather data on health, activity, and environment, while a central station analyzes and transmits vital updates via satellite. With over a year of battery life, the system can monitor up to 3,000 animals, detect their status and activity, build routes, and cover a wide area. It can send alerts without internet access, ensuring real-time updates no matter the location. More information about this case is here.

• Emergency Smart Bracelet. Our device helps the elderly stay connected with loved ones while supporting their independence. With a simple, user-friendly design, it allows for safe monitoring without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Equipped with one-touch activation and GPS tracking, it autonomously detects emergencies. Its battery lasts over 60 days on a single charge, and thanks to its IP67 waterproof rating, it can be worn anywhere—even in the shower or while washing dishes. Learm more.

Real-world Uses of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are integral to modern technology, powering everything from IoT devices to smart gadgets. Here’s a look at some real-world applications:

1. GPS: Embedded systems enable GPS receivers in cars and phones to track location and provide navigation.
2. Medical Devices: Devices like heart monitors use embedded systems to continuously collect and transmit health data for remote monitoring.
3. Automotive: Features like adaptive cruise control, airbag deployment, and in-vehicle entertainment rely on embedded systems for safety and functionality.
4. Automated Fare Collection: Public transport systems use embedded systems in ticket machines and smart cards to automate fare payment and entry.
5. Fitness Trackers: Wearables like fitness trackers collect data on steps, heart rate, and more, using embedded systems to monitor and transmit this information.
6. Home Entertainment: Embedded systems power smart TVs, managing inputs from HDMI, Ethernet, and controlling streaming services.
7. ATMs: ATMs use embedded systems to process transactions, verify user data, and communicate with bank servers.
8. Manufacturing: Robots in factories, equipped with embedded systems, handle precise tasks and improve safety by automating dangerous jobs.
9. EV Charging Stations: Charging stations for electric vehicles use embedded systems to manage power delivery, display information, and monitor system health.
10. Self-Service Kiosks: Kiosks at places like airports and cinemas use embedded systems to offer interactive, user-friendly services without needing staff.
11. Smart Home Devices: Devices like smart thermostats, lights, and security systems use embedded systems to automate home management, allowing users to control settings remotely via smartphones or voice commands.
12. Drones: Drones rely on embedded systems for flight control, navigation, and real-time data processing, enabling tasks like aerial photography, surveying, and delivery services.
13. Smart Appliances: Embedded systems are integral to smart refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines, enabling features like remote monitoring, energy efficiency, and automated operation.
14. Industrial Automation: Conveyor belts and automated assembly lines in factories use embedded systems to ensure precision, monitor production, and manage complex operations with minimal human intervention.
15. Traffic Management Systems: Embedded systems control traffic lights, monitor road conditions, and manage flow to reduce congestion and enhance road safety in smart cities.
16. Wearable Health Devices: Devices like glucose monitors and blood pressure cuffs use embedded systems to continuously track health metrics, alert users to critical changes, and sync data with healthcare apps.
17. Smart Grid Systems: Embedded systems in smart grids manage electricity distribution, monitor energy usage, and optimize power flow to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
18. Retail Point of Sale (POS) Systems: Embedded systems in POS terminals process transactions, manage inventory in real-time, and support customer interactions, ensuring smooth retail operations.
19. Smart Agriculture Equipment: Embedded systems in smart tractors and irrigation systems monitor soil conditions, control planting and watering, and optimize crop yields through automated processes.
20. Telecommunication Infrastructure: Embedded systems manage signal processing, network routing, and data transmission in telecommunications, ensuring reliable communication and efficient network operation.

Embedded systems are the tiny powerhouses behind everyday tech, handling tasks like instant data processing and precise control. They’re in everything—from smart thermostats and wearable health devices to drones and smart home appliances—quietly powering our connected world. Small but mighty, these systems are rapidly advancing, driving the future of smart cities, automated factories, and beyond with their cutting-edge capabilities.