Understanding the Applications of Modern Embedded Computing |...

Understanding the Applications of Modern Embedded Computing

Posted 2024-09-18 10:49:07

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Microcontrollers
A microcontroller contains a processor, memory, and input/output peripherals on a single chip. Microcontrollers are optimized for embedded applications requiring control, sensing and actuating functions. Some popular microcontroller brands are ARM, PIC, AVR, MSP430 and 8051.

SoCs and ASSPs
System on Chips (SoCs) and Application Specific Standard Products (ASSPs) integrate complex digital and mixed-signal functions into a single device. They are used when higher processing power or integration is needed compared to microcontrollers. Common SoC chip families are from Intel, AMD, Nvidia and Qualcomm.

Embedded Computing: DSPs and FPGAs
Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) are specialized microprocessors optimized for digital signal processing such as audio and video processing. Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are integrated circuits that can be reconfigured to desired logic functions. DSPs and FPGAs are often used in wireless communication, audio/video equipment, automotive and industrial applications.

Embedded Operating Systems
While some simple embedded systems run without an os, many use a specialized real-time embedded operating system to manage hardware resources and multiple tasks. Following are some popular embedded OS:

- Embedded Linux - A modified Linux kernel optimized for Embedded Computing systems. Popular due to open source model and driver support. Common on IoT, automotive infotainment systems.

- FreeRTOS - A free, open source real-time OS kernel for small memory microcontrollers and real-time applications. Used widely in IoT applications.

- Integrity - Developed by Green Hills Software, highly integrated with their development tools and certifiable for safety critical applications.

- MQX - Multithreaded, Embedded OS from Freescale Semiconductor (now NXP), optimized for low-end microcontrollers.

- INTEGRITY - Certifiable OS from Green Hills meeting safety and security requirements. Used in avionics, medical, industrial control.

- VxWorks - One of the earliest commercial embedded OS, solutions areas include robotics, automation, telecommunication and aerospace.

Programming Languages for Embedded Systems
Several programming languages are commonly used for embedded software development. Some of the most popular ones are:

C/C++ - The most widely used languages due to efficiency and ability to interface with hardware. Are supported by all embedded toolchains.

Java - Popular for connected, Internet of Things devices due to cross-platform capabilities. Runs on embedded Java virtual machines like Java ME.

Assembly - Used for lowest level or highest performance applications where direct hardware access is needed. Varies per microcontroller architecture.

Python - A High level interpreted language growing in embedded use cases, especially for IoT and hobbyist applications. Can run on microcontrollers with a small Python interpreter.

Rust - A relatively new systems programming language gaining traction because of its safety, speed and memory safety. Useful especially in contexts that historically used C++.