CEA - Computer Engineering

Embed– Embedded Systems

MODULE 1: EMBEDDED
SYSTEMS OVERVIEW
TOPIC: Learning Objective
This module focuses on defining embedded systems
● To define Embedded
and its components. It includes basic concepts such
System
as components, types, elements and application.
● To identify the different
You will also discover some of the basic trends and
components of an
technologies of an embedded system.
embedded system
● To recognize the trend in
designing an embedded
MODULE STRUCTURE: system
• READINGS
Lesson 1.1 Embedded Systems Overview Resources Needed
• VIDEO PRESENTATIONS ● Access to the Internet
Video 1.1 Embedded Systems
● Computer or mobile
Video 1.2 Components of Embedded Systems device
TASKS:

• Discussion 1.1
• Assignment 1.1
• Assignment 1.2
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COELECT2 – Database Management System

I. EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

a. Overview

“a combination a combination of computer hardware and software designed for a specific

function or functions within a larger system”

“part of a complete device often including hardware and mechanical parts”

“cannot be used as a general-purpose computer using a variety of different programs for different
task”

An embedded system is a system that is composed of a software and a hardware that

performs a specific task. This task is used to support the functionality of a larger system. A
very good example is a digital camera. The main function of a digital camera is to capture
a natural scene and convert it into a digital form. To support/enhance this function, there
are lots of other features such as face detection, auto capture and wireless connectivity
that were added into the device. Each feature we’re developed combining hardware
and software element that forms the embedded system for a digital camera.

b. Characteristics

• Single-Functioned - has specific specialized operation

• Tightly Constrained – limited in size, power and performance
• Reactive and Real Time - must compute certain results in real time without any delay
• Microprocessor/Microcontroller based – has central processing unit
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c. Types/Classifications

Real Time Stand Alone Networked Mobile

a system which gives a system that works related to a network Small size/portable
a required output in a by itself, and does not to access the embedded system
particular time need a resources via
host system like a communication
compute network
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COELECT2 – Database Management System

d. Embedded System Architecture and Structure

Embedded systems contain two main elements:

• Embedded system hardware: As with any electronic system, an embedded system

requires a hardware platform on which to run. The hardware will be based around a
microprocessor or microcontroller. The embedded system hardware will also contain
other elements including memory, input output (I/O) interfaces as well as the user
interface, and the display.

• Embedded system software: The embedded system software is written to perform a

particular function. It is typically written in a high-level format and then compiled down
to provide code that can be lodged within a non-volatile memory within the
hardware.

A typical structure of an embedded system includes the following components

• Sensor − It measures the physical quantity and converts it to an electrical signal

which can be read by an observer or by any electronic instrument like an A2D
converter. A sensor stores the measured quantity to the memory.
• A-D Converter − An analog-to-digital converter converts the analog signal sent
by the sensor into a digital signal.
• Processor & ASICs − Processors process the data to measure the output and store
it to the memory.
• D-A Converter − A digital-to-analog converter converts the digital data fed by
the processor to analog data
• Actuator − An actuator compares the output given by the D-A Converter to the
actual (expected) output stored in it and stores the approved output.

Watch Video 1.1 Components of an Embedded System to learn more about the structure
of an embedded system

Note: Each of the embedded systems is unique. The design varies based on
manufacturer’s design and functionality of the system.
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COELECT2 – Database Management System

e. Advantages of Embedded System

• Physical Benefits - rarely needs any hardware changes

- easier to house an embedded system in a device
• Dedicated Task - simpler task leads to less error
• Specifications & Costs - Cost is usually lower
- multi-core processors aren't usually needed
• Customizable – features can be easily identified

f. Disadvantages of embedded system

• Development Effort – has complex algorithms

• Difficult to Upgrade – update usually requires new hardware and software
• Hard to Maintain - It is also difficult to take a back-up of embedded files.
• Limited Hardware - Because these systems are made for specific tasks

ASSIGNMENT 1.1 EMBEDDED SYSTEMS EVERYWHERE

Give an embedded system that we can add in the following host machines.
Describe the functionality of the embedded system. Be creative and imaginative.

MACHINE EMBEDDED SYSTEM FUNCTIONALITY

Automated Teller Machine

Snack/Bottled Drinks
Vending machines

(Any) Give one host

machine

Example:

ONLINE CLASS VIDEO CONFERENCING SOFTWARE APPLICATION

- Facial Expression/Emotion Detection System

- It allows recognition of basic emotion in class like bored, sleepy, confused,

excited, enlighten or happy through facial expression. This will help instructors
to check the status of the class and perform necessary adjustment during the
online class

II. TRENDS IN EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

In the a web article “Latest Technology in Embedded Systems and Applications”, there are
5 Latest Technology that depicts the future of embedded systems.
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These technologies are:

✓ Artificial Intelligence
✓ Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
✓ Deep Learning
✓ Embedded security
✓ Cloud Connectivity (IOT)
Read the article to learn more about these technologies.

EMBEDDED SYSTEM ENGINEER

An embedded systems engineer is responsible for the design, development, production,

testing, and maintenance of embedded systems.

Embedded Systems Engineer Career Path:

✓ Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

✓ Quality Assurance Engineer
✓ Project Engineer
✓ Program Management
✓ Sales Engineer
✓ Marketing Director

Skills and Qualifications:

✓ C language programmer (C++, Assembly Language, HDL)

✓ Knowledge in different microprocessor and microcontroller architectures
✓ Familiarity on IoT devices and frameworks such as Google Cloud Platform, IBM
Watson, Azure, and AWS.
✓ Technical Writing skills (Technical documents/Researches)
✓ Learning Ability
✓ Analysis skills and creativity

Top embedded systems companies(ventureradar.com):

1. Microsoft. Listed Company. Founded 1975. USA

2. BigML. Private Company. Founded 2011. USA
3. BASF. Listed Company. Founded 1865. Germany
4. Skydio. Private Company. Founded 2014. USA
5. Graphcore. Private Company. Founded 2016

Embedded Systems Companies in the Philippines:

• DENSO TEN Solutions Philippines Corporation

• Duke Software Development Center
• Accenture
• i-Bridge Systems Philippines, Inc.
• PACKETWORX INC.
• and more
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ASSIGNMENT 1.2 EMBEDDED SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Look for 3 Embedded Engineering Job Opportunities (any country). Give the following
details:

a. Job Title
b. Job Description
c. Skills or Qualification
d. Company Name
e. Salary in pesos monthly and annually

Reflect on your output by answering the following

1. What common skills or Qualifications were required?

2. Did you find any jobs that you are interested in? Explain why?