What is an embedded system?

Embedded systems generally refer to non-PC systems, which have computer functions but are not called computers. They are application-centric, with tailorable hardware and software, and are dedicated computer systems that meet the application system's strict requirements for functions, reliability, cost, volume, power consumption, etc. Simply put, embedded systems integrate the system's application software and hardware, similar to the working mode of BIOS in PCs, with small software code, high automation, fast response speed, etc., and are particularly suitable for systems that require real-time and multi-tasking. Embedded systems are mainly composed of embedded processors, related supporting hardware, embedded operating systems, and application software systems. They are "devices" that can work independently.

Embedded systems include almost all electrical devices in life, such as handheld PDAs, mobile computing devices, TV set-top boxes, mobile Internet, digital TV, multimedia, automobiles, microwave ovens, digital cameras, home automation systems, elevators, air conditioners, security systems, vending machines, cellular phones, consumer electronic devices, industrial automation instruments and medical instruments, etc.

The hardware part of the embedded system includes the processor/microprocessor, memory and peripheral devices and I/O ports, graphics controller, etc. The embedded system is different from the general computer processing system. It does not have a large-capacity storage medium like a hard disk, but mostly uses EPROM, EEPROM or Flash Memory as a storage medium. The software part includes operating system software (requires real-time and multi-tasking operation) and application programming. The application controls the operation and behavior of the system; while the operating system controls the interaction between application programming and hardware.