Computers specifically designed to streamline one or a few operations are regarded as embedded systems. Also referred to as micro-controllers, they are typically known as special-purpose computers due to the fact that embedded systems are integrated into the hardware and mechanical components of a broad range of machines and devices.
Embedded control networks have been introduced into closely every facet of life including the healthcare and medical industry, entertainment, telecommunications, etc. With its important role in different devices like MRI machines and mobile phones, embedded systems are unarguably transforming the future and revolutionizing the way society lives.
History of Embedded Systems
One of the first recorded contemporary Embedded System embedded networks involved the Apollo Project. Developed and facilitated by Charles Stark Draper of MIT’s instrumentation facility, an embedded system was integrated into the Apollo Guidance Computer. At that time, the Apollo Guidance Computer was recognized as the riskiest structure involved in the project as it only used the back-then newly developed monolithic incorporated circuits to minimize both size and mass.
Since its early use in 1960s, embedded networks were commercialized to the general market. The original price of $1,000 per piece was slashed down to $3, which permitted merchants and manufacturing companies to use it for commercial products including electronics and appliances. Since then, there has been a drastic emergence in processing capabilities and functionality.
Applications
Embedded systems have extensive applications in consumer, commercial, and industrial markets. Even military computers and devices use embedded networks.
Telecom networks use various embedded systems from phone switches for the network to telephones at the end-user. Meanwhile, computer networking utilized dedicated routers and network bridges to relay information.
Everyday devices like MP3s, printers, video game consoles, and digital cameras also rely on embedded systems to perform specific tasks and operations. Nearly all modern designs of household appliances like microwave ovens, toasters, dishwashers and refrigerators also integrate embedded systems to impart better versatility, efficiency and specs.
State-of-the-art HVAC systems are also being introduced with embedded computers. Networked thermostats yield better and more precise management of temperatures that can alter by season or day. Home automation is also embedded nowadays with wired and wireless systems that can be employed to manage and oversee lighting, safety and security, entertainment, etc. To see more on how embedded systems are being applied read this from Dell.
The transportation industry is another major industry that has found extensive use and application for embedded computers. Nowadays, flight operations and the latest designs of ground and air vehicles use embedded networks. New planes boast cutting-edge avionics like inertial guidance networks and GPS that also implement stringent safety requirements.
What’s New?
To add up to mainstream embedded networks based on compact computers, a new category of miniature wireless machines known as motes are rapidly gaining popularity as the area of wireless sensor networking emerges. WSN applies miniaturization all thanks to the high-tech IC design to compound complete wireless subsystems to complex sensors. This allows consumers and businesses to estimate a multitude of aspects in the physical world and respond using this data via IT observations and control networks. These so-called motes are entirely self-contained and usually run out of battery supply for a long period of time prior requiring battery charging or replacing. To see more on servers, sensors and other industrial computers click here.
Features
Embedded computers have intricate and extremely efficient power management technology. They also only need an infinitesimal volume of resources to effectively and consistently function. Performance specs for embedded computers are virtually absent thus enabling manufacturing companies to fabricate less-complex products at affordable prices. Oftentimes, the system is integrated into standalone items. Nonetheless, embedded networks are usually applied as subsystems as a network of a group of interacting parts in a product.
In terms of user interface, former versions of embedded networks rarely need any interface due to the fact that all information and programs were usually integrated into the device itself. Yet today, users are given much better interaction capabilities with embedded systems. A good example would be inputting data into a PDA.
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