Introducction#
Glossary#
Acronyms#
- ASIC Application-Specific Integrated Circuit.
- FPGA: Field-Programmable Gate Array.
- GPS: Global Positioning System.
- IDE: Integrated Development Dnvironment.
- OS: Operating System.
- POSIX: Portable Operating System Interface.
- RT: Real Time.
- UI: User Interface.
What are embedded systems?#
A system with a programmable computer, but not general purpose.
Where they are?#
It is estimated that there are an average of 40 embedded systems per house.
- Automotive: Engine control, braking system, etc.
- Home electronics: Washing machine, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, etc.
- Consumer electronics: Mobile phones, mp3, ebooks, tv, cameras, gps, etc.
- Industrial control: Manufacturing control systems, sensors, etc.
- Medical: Dialysis machines, cardiac monitors, etc.
- Office: Fax, photocopier, printers, etc.
Many systems are composed of several embedded systems, i.e. mobile phones.
Architecture#
| Layer | Components |
|---|---|
| Application | services, UI |
| Middleware | frameworks, protocols |
| Platform | Controlers, OS |
| Hardware | Microcontrolers, peripherals |
Characteristics#
- Unique function: A single function performed repeatedly.
- Reliable: Minimun error probability, maintainability, disponibility, secure connections.
- Limited resources: Manufacturing cost, size (physical and memory), energy consumption, eficiency.
- RT: Reponse time limited.
- Reactive: Input by sensors, output by actuators.
- Complex algorithms: Physical environment with which they interact interact with is complex.
- UI: Dedicated interfaces, i.e. pedals, steering wheels, buttons, etc.
- Multi rate: Some tasks must be performed in RT, others do not.
No all embedded systems have all the characteristics.
Clasification#
Usually classified as small, medium and sophisticated.
| characteristic \ classification | Small | Medium | Sophisticated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | 8 and 16 bits | 16, 32 and 64 bits | FPGA, ASIC |
| Hardware complexity | Low complexity | peripherals, interfaces, etc. | Designers |
| Software complexity | No complex operations | Medium size Software | Designers must be experts |
| Tools disponibility | Programmed in a simple environment | Debugger, compilers and / or IDE | Complete environment needed |
| Examples | Calculator | Washing machine, microwave | Robots, braking and landing |
Topics about embedded systems#
- Architecture and OS of embedded systems.
- Software: POSIX, RT and planning.
- Firmware for Arduino.