What is an Embedded System ?
ØAn embedded system is some combination of
computer hardware and software , either fixed in
capability or programmable, that is specifically
designed for a particular function.
ØIt is embedded as part of a complete device often
including hardware and mechanical parts.
ØModern embedded systems are often based on
microcontrollers ( i.e. CPUs with integrated memory
or peripheral interfaces), but ordinary
microprocessors ( using external chips for memory
and peripheral interface circuits ) are also common,
especially in more complex systems.
Difference between Embedded and
General purpose System
Embedded System
vDesigned to do some specific set
of tasks.
vNot programmable by end user.
vLow power consumption.
vFixed time constraints.
vTask specific that’s why more
economical.
General Purpose System
vCan perform multiple tasks.
vProgrammable by end user.
vGenerally high power
consumption.
vDoes not have fixed time
constraints.
vGenerally costly than task
specific system.
Example of an Embedded System
Embedded systems controls
many of the common devices in
use today , like ---
ØDigital watches
ØTraffic lights
ØPrinters
ØMobile phone
ØMedical equipments
ØMP3 players
ØRobots
ØRouters
ØClimate control in automobiles, etc…..
What makes Embedded system
different ?
vReal time operation
vSize
vCost
vTime
vReliability
vSafely
vEnergy
Embedded System Hardware
Key Components of Embedded
Systems
Processors:
vIt is the central processing unit known as the heart of the embedded systems.
vIt is the hardware that executes the software that executes the software and
brings life to the embedded system
vControls the activities of all the other circuits.
Memory:
vUsed to store the software that the processor will run.
vAlso provides storage for data such as program variables, intermediate results,
status information and any other data generated throughout the operation.
Processor
vA processor is the heart of the
Embedded System.
vFor an embedded system designer
the knowledge of microprocessor
and microcontroller is a must.
Types of processor
1.General Purpose processor (GPP)
Ø Microprocessor
Ø Microcontroller
2. Application Specific System Processor (ASSP)
3. Multi Processor System using using GPPs
Microprocessor
vA microprocessor is a single chip semi conductor device also which is a
computer on chip, but not a complete computer.
vIts CPU contains an ALU, a program counter, a stack pointer, some working
register, a clock timing circuit and interrupt circuit on a single chip.
vTo make complete micro computer, one must add memory usually ROM and
RAM, memory decoder, an oscillator and a number of serial and parallel ports.
Various Microprocessors
Intel
4004, 4040
8080,8085
8086,8088,
80186,80188
80286,80386
x86-64,
Motorola
6800
6809
68000
G3,G4,G5
Zilog
Z80,Z180,eZ80
Z8,eZ8
And others
Microcontroller
A microcontroller is a functional computer system-on-a chip. It
contains a processor, memory, and programmable input/output
peripherals.
Microcontrollers include an integrated CPU, memory(a small amount
of RAM, program memory, or both) and peripherals capable of input
and output
Microprocessor v/s Microcontroller
MicrocontrollerMicroprocessor
ØThe functional blocks are ALU,
registers, timing control units.
ØBit handling instruction is less, One
or two type only.
ØIt is used for designing general
purpose digital computers system.
It includes functional blocks of
microprocessors & in addition has timer,
parallel i/o, RAM, EPROM,ADC & DAC.
Many type of bit handling instruction.
They are used for designing application
specific dedicated systems.