Exploring the Fundamental Components of Embedded Systems

The world we live in today relies heavily on technological advancements such as electronics and yearly improvements in functionality and intelligence. The computing power we have today rivals that of supercomputers decades ago. We've seen significant advances in hardware over the years, but it's important to recognize that the underlying software fueled the IoT (Internet of Things) revolution.

In this article, we'll look at the basic components of embedded systems and how they affect our daily lives. Understanding the complexity of the technology around us requires a deeper understanding of the underlying concepts of technology So let's try to understand what an embedded system is and what are the basic components of an embedded system.

What is an Embedded System?

An embedded system is a compact electronic device consisting of small and/or large hardware and software elements designed to perform a specific or limited set of functions. It contains embedded software that runs on microcontrollers and microprocessors. Unlike general-purpose computers, embedded systems may not have screens or keyboards. Additionally, they can be programmable or non-programmable and can function as stand-alone devices or components of larger systems.

Embedded systems are ubiquitous in everyday electronics, from TV remote controls and microwave ovens to building complex automotive sensor networks and advanced robotic equipment. Embedded software is used in these devices to ensure proper functionality and efficient performance.

Embedded Systems Components

An embedded system is a combination of various components working together to accomplish a specific task. Broadly speaking, these components can be categorized into hardware and software elements.

Hardware Components

Listed below are the key hardware components that are commonly found in embedded systems and play a critical role in embedded system functionality and performance.

Power Supply: This is the electrical energy required for embedded systems. Power is supplied by batteries or wall adapters and requires stability and efficiency to ensure continued operation.

Processor: The brain of an embedded system, the processor, more commonly known as the central processing unit (CPU), determines the performance and functionality of the system. These processors are either microprocessors (general-purpose CPUs) or microcontrollers (integrated CPUs with peripherals).

Storage: Embedded systems use different types of storage. RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory). RAM stores data and variables temporarily during execution, while ROM permanently stores data such as firmware and program code. Flash memory is also used primarily for non-volatile storage.

Timers and Counters: They are essential for time management and delay generation in embedded systems, controlling events, measuring time intervals, and synchronizing operations.

Communication Port: They allow embedded systems to communicate, i.e. exchange data with other devices or systems. Communication interfaces include USB (universal serial bus), UART (serial communication), RS-485 (long-distance serial communication), Ethernet (network communication), and the like.

Input/output: To interact with external components, some embedded systems require input/output capabilities. Input devices such as sensors and user interfaces supply data to the system, and output devices such as displays, LEDs, and actuators send information or trigger actions.

Application-Specific Circuits: Some embedded systems may contain additional circuitry tailored to specific functions depending on the application. These circuits may include analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), digital-to-analog converters (DACs), specialized sensor interfaces, or motor controllers.

Software Components

Now that we understand the important hardware components of embedded systems, let's look at the various software components and tools involved in embedded system design. Commonly used and important software components are:

Assembler: This component is used to convert assembly code into machine or object code that can be executed by a target microprocessor or microcontroller.

Emulator: This is useful for running and testing embedded system software on the host system. Emulators simulate the behavior of target hardware for debugging and problem-solving.

Compiler: Compilers help translate high-level programming languages, such as C++ and C, into machine or object code that embedded systems can execute. It also helps in performing optimizations and generating executable code.

Integrated Development Environment (IDE): This component facilitates the development process by giving a comprehensive development environment as well as features like code editing, compiling, debugging, and project management tools.

Software Libraries: These libraries are pre-written code modules or functions that offer commonly used functionality or specific hardware interactions that aides code simplification, size reduction, and reuse.

Real-Time Operating System (RTOS): A specialized operating system designed for embedded systems with deterministic and real-time behavior that provides task scheduling, resource management, and inter-task communication capabilities.

Middleware: These components are the bridge between operating systems and application software, offering additional functionality and services such as communication protocols, data management, and networking capabilities.

Conclusion

Embedded systems have opened up a realm of fascinating and ever-expanding possibilities for Gen-Z to explore. With the advancement of technology, these systems have become an integral part of our modern life due to their compact size, specialized features, and integration into various devices and industries. Embedded systems have revolutionized the way humans interact with technology: from mobile devices to network systems to real-time applications

Henry Harvin Education offers a comprehensive course covering the basic concepts, hardware, software, and hands-on skills required to design and develop embedded systems. Talk to an expert or get a free demo of their Embedded Systems course