Introduction to embedded systems

INTRODUCTION TO EMBEDDED SYSTEM

     Embedded system is the computer systems which includes microcontroller. This system is designed for one particular task to do. It can do one task one at a time. Microcontroller includes RAM, ROM, timers, interrupts, UART all integrated on one single chip.Embedded systems are commonly found in consumer, cooking, industrial, automotive, medical, commercial and military applications. Heart of any embedded system is microcontroller. 

           

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      Here i can give one example of embedded system ie printer. Printer can do only one task one at a time ie printing the pages, photos. Traffic light controller system, electronic vending machines, washing machines, electronic stethoscope, medical imaging are some example of embedded systems. Hardware can be a microprocessor or microntroller.

 

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      Block diagram shows embedded system incorporates cpu, memory, sensors, actuators, analog to digital convertors. CPU contains microprocessor or microcontroller having timers, counters, memory, communication protocols all on the single chip. sensors will take analog data which will be given to CPU through A/D convertors. CPU will read the data coming from A/D converters and give further instructions. Actuators will perform the main task after getting instructions from CPU. In hospital embedded system plays a vital role. I can give one example right now. In ICU there are patients suffering from diabetes. they need to give proper dose of insulin whenever needed. If you have embedded system having provision of sensors and actuators then this system will take care of patients without supervision of human. Sensors will be fitted to patient body and it will give information about sugar level in patient body. With this information actuators give the proper doses of insulin to patient.