17-01-2013, 02:42 PM
Embedded Systems Introduction
[attachment=47364]
What is an Embedded System?
Definition of an embedded computer system:
is a digital system.
uses a microprocessor (usually).
runs software for some or all of its functions.
frequently used as a controller.
Why ‘embedded’?
Because the processor is ‘inside’ some other
system.
A microprocessor is ‘embedded’ into your TV, car,
or appliance.
The consumer does not think about performing
processing,
Considers running a machine or `making
something work’.
Considered “part of” the thing rather than the
thing
Small and Many!
Most embedded systems use 4-, 8-, or 16-bit processors.
32-bit used for intensive applications like printer controls.
8-bit processors have about 64K of memory, that limits
amount of code.
“By 1990 a total of about 45 million recognizable computers (i.e., PCs,
Macintosh, even CP/M systems) were in place. Yet over 1 billion
microprocessors and microcontrollers were shipped in that year
alone!”
Increased Complexity
Systems are becoming more and more complex.
Harder to think about total design.
Harder to fix ‘bugs.’
Harder to maintain systems over time.
Therefore, the traditional development process
has to change,
Solutions to Complexity:
Need to keep design process abstract for a longer
period of time.
Decomposable hierarchy (object-oriented).
Reuse previous designs:
When a design changes, reuse similar sections.
Don’t throw away last year’s design and start from scratch!
Automated verification systems.
[attachment=47364]
What is an Embedded System?
Definition of an embedded computer system:
is a digital system.
uses a microprocessor (usually).
runs software for some or all of its functions.
frequently used as a controller.
Why ‘embedded’?
Because the processor is ‘inside’ some other
system.
A microprocessor is ‘embedded’ into your TV, car,
or appliance.
The consumer does not think about performing
processing,
Considers running a machine or `making
something work’.
Considered “part of” the thing rather than the
thing
Small and Many!
Most embedded systems use 4-, 8-, or 16-bit processors.
32-bit used for intensive applications like printer controls.
8-bit processors have about 64K of memory, that limits
amount of code.
“By 1990 a total of about 45 million recognizable computers (i.e., PCs,
Macintosh, even CP/M systems) were in place. Yet over 1 billion
microprocessors and microcontrollers were shipped in that year
alone!”
Increased Complexity
Systems are becoming more and more complex.
Harder to think about total design.
Harder to fix ‘bugs.’
Harder to maintain systems over time.
Therefore, the traditional development process
has to change,
Solutions to Complexity:
Need to keep design process abstract for a longer
period of time.
Decomposable hierarchy (object-oriented).
Reuse previous designs:
When a design changes, reuse similar sections.
Don’t throw away last year’s design and start from scratch!
Automated verification systems.