Embedded Systems

By Author: Deepak
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Embedded systems are computer systems which can perform some dedicated functions and are \"embedded\" as a part of the device. Embedded systems include both hardware and physical parts. What makes embedded systems a revelation these days is their flexibility and capability to meet a wide variety of end-user requirements. Each embedded system performs a specific function and hence the designing engineer can optimize the design, too. Optimization of design helps in reduction of size and cost of the product, thereby enhancing its reliability and performance.
The main processing cores which control the functioning of an embedded system are basically microcontrollers and digital signal processors. The prime concern is to perform some particular function keeping in mind the restrictions associated with real-time computing. This requires the embedded systems to be equipped with powerful processors. Examples of Embedded Systems that we come across in daily lives range from small, portable handheld devices like MP3 players, digital watches, calculators and even larger practical applications like traffic lights, factory controllers ...
... etc. Embedded systems find use in innumerable devices and applications.
Programmers who design and implement codes on Embedded Systems write programs called \"firmware\" which are stored in ROM or flash memory chips. These can be compiled without the support of hardly any hardware resources. You can compile and run the firmware successfully with even little memory and a small keyboard or screen. Embedded systems are not always stand alone devices. They consist of small, computerized parts within a larger device, which perform a specific function.
Embedded Systems are a technology that is meeting the requirements of plenty across the globe and forms the basic functional unit of several multi-purpose devices in use. A course on embedded systems will be extremely handy for you as it will enlighten you regarding the all minute details and intricacies related to the structure, functioning and design of embedded systems. Since embedded systems are the in-thing today in the technology world, its knowledge will certainly be another feather in your cap. The course also teaches how to create, compile and run programs on embedded systems in order to accomplish some particular function. Debugging of firmware is also essential to learn, to give you that extra edge over your contemporaries. Program creation, compilation and debugging are all important to be learnt. Some embedded systems also have to meet some real-time computing constraints, but still the embedded system technology is a boon to the steadily progressing, techno-savvy generation.