We can classify embedded systems into different categories w.r.t. size and real time requirement as given below,
Embedded systems
- Small scale embedded system
- Medium scale embedded systems
- Sophisticated embedded system
- Real time embedded system
- Stand alone embedded system
- Mobile embedded systems
- Networked Embedded Systems
Small scale embedded system
Normally small scale embedded system is designed by using an 8 bit microcontroller that may even be activated by a battery. For developing embedded software for such system, an editor, assembler or cross assembler are used for specific microcontroller or processor used in the system.
Small scale embedded system
Medium scale embedded systems
The medium scale embedded systems are designed using single or multiple 16 bit or 32 bit microcontroller or digital signal processors (DSP’s) or reduced instruction set computer (RISC’s). These types of embedded systems have both hardware and software complexities. The development tools like real time operating system (RTOS), source code engineering tools, simulator, debugger and integrated development tools are required for such complex software design system. These software tools also provide the solution for the hardware complexities, so assembler is used very rarely.
Medium scale embedded systems
Sophisticated embedded system
Sophisticated embedded systems consist of large quantity of hardware and software complexities hence they may required scalable processors or configurable processors and programmable logic arrays (PLA’s).They are used for cutting-edge applications that need hardware and software Co-design and components which have to assemble in the final system.
Sophisticated embedded system
Real time embedded system
Real time embedded system are designed to perform some specific work in specific time. Real time embedded systems are classified into two types such as soft and hard real time systems.
Real time embedded system
Stand alone embedded system
These type embedded systems are works in standalone made in which input i.e. electrical signals from sensors or keyword or push button are taken, then processed and produced the desired output to drive another system such as LED or LCD display for displaying some meaningful information to user. Such stand alone embedded systems are used in mp3 players, digital cameras, video game consoles, microwave ovens and temperature measurement systems.
Stand alone embedded system
Mobile embedded system
Mobile embedded systems are used in portable embedded devices like mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, iphones, smart phones and personal digital assistants etc. the systems has some limitation such as memory constrains, small in size and lack of good user interface such as keyboard and display.
Mobile embedded system
Networked embedded systems
These types of embedded systems consists of various components such as sensors, controllers, actuators etc. interconnected through a network using TCP/IP or UDP. The networked embedded system built on ASIP’s or general purpose processors.
Networked embedded systems