Purpose of Embedded Systems

Data Collection/Storage/Representation

Embedded Systems perform the acquisition of data from the external world. The collected data can be either analog or digital. Data collection is usually done for storage, analysis, manipulation, and transmission. The collected data may be stored directly in the system or may be transmitted to other systems or processed by the system, or it may be deleted instantly after giving a meaningful representation.

Data Communication

Embedded Data communication systems are dedicated to data communication. These systems are deployed in applications ranging from complex satellite communication systems to simple home networking systems. Data communication can occur through a wired or wireless interface. Examples include network hubs, routers, switches, modems, etc.

Data (Signal) Processing

Embedded systems with signal processing functionalities are employed in applications demanding signal processing, such as speech coding, audio/video codec, transmission applications, etc. A digital hearing aid is a typical example of an embedded system employing data processing.

Monitoring

Embedded systems designed for monitoring purposes determine the state of some variables using input sensors. They do not impose control over variables. An example is an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine for monitoring the heartbeat of a patient.

Control

Embedded systems with control functionalities impose control over some variables according to changes in input variables. These systems contain both sensors and actuators. Sensors capture changes in environmental or measuring variables, and actuators control the output based on these changes to bring the controlled variable to the specified range. An air conditioner for controlling room temperature is a typical example.

Application Specific User Interface

Embedded systems designed for specific applications contain application-specific user interfaces like keyboards, display units, etc., aimed at a specific target group of users. Examples include mobile handsets and control units in industrial applications.