Embedded Systems

An embedded system is a computer system (combination of a computer processor, computer

memory, and i/o peripheral devices) that has a dedicated function within a larger mechanical
or electronic system. An embedded microprocessor is a computer chip used inside several
devices and equipments to provide added functionality.

Embedded microprocessor systems are nothing but computer chips that are integral part of
lighting system, home appliances, industrial equipments, etc. Generally, microprocessors are
used in signal processing, general computing and real-time computing data. As a signal
processor, microprocessors’ uses in digital televisions include decoding of the digital and radio
signals. In real-time systems, microprocessors are embedded in security devices like anti-lock
breaking system; these systems are widely used in automobiles.

Embedded systems range in size from portable personal devices to bigger machines; from those
low in complexity, with a single microcontroller chip, to very high with multiple
units, peripherals and networks, which may reside in equipment racks or across large
geographical areas connected via long-distance communications lines.

A microprocessor chip is built by using semiconductor devices wherein thousands

of transistors are integrated into a single chip for better performance. The major
microprocessor’s parts include:

 ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

 Memory unit
 Control Unit
 Registers
 System Bus

The classification of embedded-microprocessor depends on several factors like computing

performance, availability of memory, type of application, etc., and some of these
microprocessors include:

 Complex instruction set microprocessors

 Reduced instruction set microprocessors
 Superscalar microprocessors
 Application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)
 Digital signal microprocessors (DSPs)

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