10 Real Life Examples of Embedded Systems

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4 Types of Embedded Devices

Embedded systems are integral to numerous products, machines, and smart operations, like machine learning and AI applications. With their ubiquity across various industries and sectors, embedded devices and software are essential for the operation of cars, home appliances, medical devices, interactive kiosks, and other everyday equipment. This article provides examples and explanations of embedded systems to demonstrate their impact on modern life.

Embedded systems are designed for minimal human intervention, characterized by compact size, simple design, and low cost. They are pivotal in industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and smart cities, driving the digital, connected, and automated world we live in today. Here are the types and characteristics of embedded systems alongside real-life examples of devices with embedded software.

Common embedded systems are categorized into four types based on performance and functional requirements:

• Real-time
• Stand-alone
• Networked
• Mobile

Real-Time

Real-time embedded systems execute specific tasks within a pre-defined time. They are divided into two types:

• Soft Real-Time Embedded Systems: Task completion is critical, but the deadline is flexible.
• Hard Real-Time Embedded Systems: Deadlines are paramount, with no room for delay.

Examples of real-time embedded systems include:

• Computer sound systems (Soft real-time)
• Aircraft control systems (Hard real-time)

Stand-alone

These systems operate independently of a host system like a processor or computer. Examples include:

• Microwave ovens
• Washing machines
• Video game consoles

Networked

Connected to a wired or wireless network, these systems perform tasks and provide output to connected devices. Examples include:

• ATMs
• Home security systems
• Card swipe machines

Mobile

Smaller in size and user-friendly, these systems are portable but have limited memory. Examples include:

• Digital cameras
• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches
• Fitness trackers

Characteristics of Embedded Computer Systems

The main characteristics of embedded systems are:

1. Small Form Factor (SFF): Highly compact designs with robust processing power.
2. Power-efficient components: Low thermal design power processors that minimize cooling needs.
3. Single-functioned: Designed for specific operations over their lifetime.
4. Lower cost: Fewer component complexities and no need for peripheral expansion slots.

For more on embedded systems terminology and concepts, explore our resources, solutions pages, and videos.

10 Embedded Systems Examples

Embedded systems are prevalent in the Internet of Things (IoT) and machine-to-machine (M2M) devices. Their versatility and adaptability mean they are integral to all modern smart devices. Here are ten real-life embedded system applications:

• Central heating systems
• GPS systems
• Fitness trackers
• Medical devices
• Automotive systems
• Transit and fare collection
• ATMs
• Factory robots
• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Interactive kiosks

1. Central Heating Systems

Central heating systems convert chemical energy into thermal energy, which is then distributed throughout a building. Embedded systems in thermostats control temperature adjustments, preventing overheating or underheating in different rooms. Examples include:

• Office buildings
• Factories
• Grocery stores
• Homes
• Schools
• Hospitals

2. GPS Systems

GPS systems utilize satellites and receivers to synchronize location, time, and velocity data. Embedded systems in GPS devices facilitate navigation, widely used in:

• Cars
• Mobile devices
• Palmtops

3. Fitness Trackers

Fitness trackers monitor health and activities using embedded systems that collect data on heart rate, body temperature, and steps, relaying this information to servers. Common uses include:

• Personal activity monitoring
• Medical monitoring
• Sports training

4. Medical Devices

Embedded systems in medical devices gather patient data and transmit it to the cloud for remote monitoring by doctors. Examples include:

• Pacemakers
• Defibrillators
• Ultrasound scanners

5. Automotive Systems

Embedded systems enhance vehicle safety and functionality. Features like adaptive speed control, airbags, and pedestrian recognition are driven by embedded systems. Other examples include:

• Car navigation systems
• Anti-lock braking systems
• Vehicle entertainment systems

6. Transit and Fare Collection

Automated Fare Collection (AFC) systems use embedded technology for efficient and secure transactions. They are common at:

• Metro stations
• Bus stations
• Railway stations

7. ATMs

ATMs rely on embedded systems for processing transactions and user inputs. They are primarily used for:

• Withdrawing cash
• Checking account balances
• Depositing money

8. Factory Robots

Factory robots use embedded systems for high-precision tasks and operate safely in hazardous conditions. Applications include:

• Assembly lines
• Quality monitoring
• Welding
• Painting
• Palletizing

9. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Embedded systems in charging stations facilitate monitoring and maintenance. These stations are used for:

• Charging vehicles
• Swapping batteries
• Parking vehicles

10. Interactive Kiosks

Embedded systems power interactive self-service kiosks, providing services in environments lacking human presence. Common locations include:

• Retail sites and convenience stores
• Hospitals
• Movie theaters
• Government buildings

The Importance of Embedded Systems

Embedded systems play a crucial role in our daily lives, from how we commute to how we conduct business. They are pervasive in various environments, including restaurants, offices, factories, and more. The significant reasons for their widespread use include:

• Small, fast, and powerful, suitable for many daily-use devices and equipment.
• Guarantee real-time application performance.
• Ensure task completion within specified time limits, like rapid graphics or AI processing.

Continuing advancements make embedded modules more sophisticated and powerful, thus improving graphics performance and edge computing capabilities.

Find Your Embedded Systems Solutions with Digi

The world without embedded systems would look significantly different. With continuous technological advancements, they will become even more critical for every device in the future. Understanding their use and numerous examples where they are implemented provides a greater grasp of the tech world and its benefits.

At Digi, we offer advanced embedded systems and development tools, forming comprehensive solutions for wireless application development with built-in security. Learn more about our embedded systems solutions and contact us to start a conversation.

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Examples of Embedded Computers (Explained)

Embedded Computers | Embedded PCs | Industrial Embedded Computer Systems

Embedded computer systems are ubiquitous. For instance, kiosks in supermarkets are likely powered by embedded computers. This post explains everything about embedded PCs and computers, and where to purchase them.

What is an Embedded Computer?

An embedded computer is a specialized system within a larger machine, dedicated to running specific applications. Like standard desktop computers, they include parts such as CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage devices but are built with industrial-grade components for harsh conditions.

Embedded PCs are found in vehicles, kiosks, factory automation, security systems, and more. Below, we explore what embedded computers are, their functions, and examples:

Embedded computers are either SoC (system-on-chip) where the CPU, GPU, chipset, and I/Os are integrated into a single substrate, or socket embedded computers with separate CPU, chipset, and GPU. The latter is more powerful and configurable than the former.

Embedded PCs are ruggedly built to endure harsh environments such as outdoor digital signage and factory floors with heavy debris. They can function in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 85°C.

Main Components of Embedded Computers

Embedded PCs consist of the following components:

#1 - CPU (Processor)

The CPU is essential for computations. The processing power required dictates the choice between low-powered SoCs and high-performance socket solutions. The latter can often be fanlessly cooled, enhancing ruggedness.

OEMs may opt for less powerful processors to cut costs, but this can hamper performance. Systems should be configured with suitable CPUs for optimal performance.

#2 - Performance Accelerators

A. GPUs (Graphics Processing Units)

GPUs accelerate AI and machine learning workloads by processing larger data blocks than CPUs. They are ideal for tasks like autonomous vehicles and medical imaging due to their parallel computation capability.

B. VPUs (Vision Processing Units)

VPUs enhance machine vision, facial recognition, and high-end image processing efficiency while consuming less power than GPUs.

C. FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays)

FPGAs accelerate AI, ML, and DL workloads better than GPUs, enhancing overall AI workflow performance with lower power consumption.

D. NVMe Computational Storage Devices (CSDs)

NVMe computational storage accelerates data-intensive workloads by processing data at the storage device level, minimizing storage-to-processor bottlenecks.

#3 - RAM (System Memory)

RAM provides quick data access, making systems faster and more responsive. It wipes data when turned off but allows better performance with more RAM for multiple applications.

#4 - Storage

Storage options include HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe SSDs, with NVMe SSDs being the fastest. Storage requirements vary with volume and cost considerations.

#5 - I/O Ports

Rich I/O ports enable connectivity with both new and legacy technologies, sensors, and the internet. Common ports include USB, RJ45 LAN, Serial COM, HDMI, DP, DVI, and GPIO.

#6 - Cooling Solution

Embedded PCs use heatsinks for passive cooling. GPUs in high-performance systems require active cooling but maintain ruggedness.

#7 - Wired & Wireless Connectivity

Connectivity options include wired (RJ45, M12 ports), Wi-Fi 6, and cellular (4G, LTE, 5G). These facilitate connectivity even in remote environments.

Defining Characteristics of Embedded PCs

Key characteristics include:

#1 - Small Footprint

Compact and lightweight, embedded PCs are deployable in space-constrained environments, such as cabinets or walls.

For additional information, visit Industrial Micro PC Factory.

#2 - Power Efficiency

Embedding power-efficient processors results in lower heat generation and better performance, especially crucial in remote environments with unstable power supply.

#3 - Dust Resistance

Fanless, rugged designs prevent dust entry, ensuring reliable operation in dusty environments, thus reducing maintenance and downtime.

#4 - Shock and Vibration Resistance

Designed to withstand shocks and vibrations, embedded systems are apt for deployment on machinery, vehicles, and other challenging environments.

The elimination of cables and use of SSDs instead of hard drives enhance reliability.

#5 - Rich I/O

Embedded computers feature multiple ports for connectivity with new and legacy technologies, ensuring comprehensive operational efficiency.

Embedded Computer vs. Regular Desktop Computer

While sharing many components, embedded computers use industrial-grade options tested for reliability in harsh environments, unlike consumer-grade desktops.

Different Types of Embedded PCs

Types of embedded computers include:

Type #1 - Rugged Industrial Computers

Engineered for extreme environments, these computers feature robust construction materials and components with wide operating temperature ranges. They are ideal for remote deployments, such as oil production facilities.

Example Solutions:

Premio RCO-6100 Series

• LGA 1151 socket for 8th/9th Gen. Intel® CFL-R S Processor
• Intel® Q370 chipset
• Triple display; 2x DDR4 2400/2666Hz SODIMM
• Multi-input/output with RAID, M.2, mini PCIe
• -25°C to 70°C wide temperature range

WCO-3400 Series

• Full system IP65 level dustproof & waterproof
• 2x mini PCIe for communication or expansion modules
• -40°C to 70°C wide range temperature

Type #2 - Industrial Panel PC

Combining computers and displays into single units, these PCs serve as HMIs in factories and interactive kiosks. They can be configured with either resistive or capacitive touch displays based on user needs.

Premio VIO Series

• 15" TFT FHD with resistive/capacitive touch
• 7th Gen Intel® Core™ i5/i3 processors
• IP65 compliant front panel
• -10°C to 60°C operating temperature

Premio SIO Series

• Full system IP66/IP69K with stainless steel construction
• M12 locking I/O connectors
• Intel® Celeron® processor J1900, 2.0 GHz

Type #3 - Vehicle Embedded Computer

Designed for harsh vehicle environments, these systems tolerate shocks, vibrations, dust, and extreme temperatures.

RCO-1010G-2P

Features:

• Intel® E3845 or J1900 processor
• 1x SO-DIMM socket, DDR3L-1066/1333, up to 8GB
• 2x mini-PCIe, 2x external SIM slots
• -25 °C ~ 70 °C operating temperature

RCO-3400 Series

High-performance rugged system with flexible I/O and equipped with wireless and cellular connectivity.

• Intel® 7th Gen (Kabylake-U) Processor
• Triple display supported, 2x 2.5" SATA HDD Bay
• -40°C to 70°C temperature range

ACO-6000 Series

Designed for rugged in-vehicle and railway applications, this series is E-Mark certified and conforms with EN50155 &