Embedded systems programming, also known as embedded programming, facilitates the development of consumer-facing devices that don't use conventional operating systems the way that desktop computers and mobile devices do.
Microprocessors and microcontrollers are built into these embedded devices to aid in the performance of a single function or set of related functions. Common examples of embedded systems include microwaves, smart refrigerators, industrial robots, video consoles and satellites.
Many embedded systems might not have a user interface (UI) if they are programmed to carry out a specific task inside a device such as the computers that control an automobile's tire pressure monitoring system or antilock brake system. Due to the lack of a human interface, these embedded systems use sensors to monitor specific features and can initiate an automated action in response to data received from the sensor. Yet, other embedded systems, such as those seen in mobile devices, will have intricate graphical UIs using a touchscreen, LED and button technologies.
Most embedded applications are in real time, meaning they respond to an outside event in a predictable way. Therefore, embedded systems frequently use real-time operating systems (RTOSes) to ensure that applications can handle data fast. Many embedded systems also require the system to process data within a set period. The RTOS measures processing delays in tenths of a second as the smallest delay can cause a system failure.
The two popular OS concepts for real-time systems are known as event driven and time sharing. If the new task has a greater priority than the old one, an event-driven operating system (OS) will switch to the new task. In an event-driven system, the OS controls the functions based on their level of importance. A time-sharing OS changes function frequently using a clock interrupt. There is no priority level given to the jobs and to ensure that each duty is finished, the embedded software often switches between them.
While many embedded operating systems are suitable for various devices, the choice of OS for an embedded system can be considerably influenced by the hardware layout and personal preferences of the programmer. Two typical ways to categorize embedded operating systems are whether they run on microprocessors or microcontrollers and whether software engineers use them, especially for certain industries or devices.
Programming languages, such as embedded C, Python and JavaScript are among the many languages that can be used for embedded software development. Typically, a computer program known as a compiler is used to transform the source code written in a programming language into another computer language, such as the binary format. The compiler also makes the code executable.
The following embedded operating systems are most often used in specific industries, electronic devices and embedded software programming:
An embedded system is an amalgamation of both computer hardware and software layers. The central processing unit (CPU), which acts as the primary system controller, is the foundation of the hardware layer.
The following hardware components are commonly found in an embedded system's CPU:
Embedded hardware elements can be integrated on one board, comprising a system-on-chip (SoC). A more complex board such as a system-on-module (SoM) can also be used, which is the integration of many chips.
Depending on the complexity and use of the device, the software layer might include a variety of components.
The following four components typically make up an entire embedded software suite:
All these components are included in large, complex embedded systems, although basic embedded solutions could be missing some software elements, such as an operating system.
Internet of things (IoT) devices cannot function without embedded systems. Learn more about their operation, their parts and how to choose the correct embedded system for an IoT device.
06 Mar 2023