With the invention of microcontrollers, embedded systems were born and since then it is evolving into various forms. Traditionally, machine control applications were designed later so that application for new verticals with the convergence of communications was made. Various types of embedded systems surround human life. Some of them are home theater systems, smart phones, medical devices and sensors, portable players and automotive embedded technology. Nowadays, computing functions and convergence of communication into the above-mentioned devices is transforming the devices into complex systems. This has given a push to make and sell more powerful and energy efficient peripherals, processors, and other accessories.
The general perception is that embedded system projects have everything to do with the electronics. However, it is a lot more than that. Embedded technology expands to special purpose sensors and actuators, digital and analog, software, mechanical items and many more. While designing and developing the embedded c programming challenges like space, cost, weight, and power consumption are very common now. The qualities people in current time look for in embedded c programming are real-time responsiveness, low power, small physical form factor/footprint, ruggedness in design, low thermal dissipation, impervious to external radiation and many more.
Achieving the prime requirements in the embedded system limits the resources of the system like memory, display size, computing etc. With each passing day, two or more technologies are converging and several new functionalities are becoming the part of embedded devices. Most of these functionalities were part of the traditional computing platforms. In the current scenario, people’s demands on functionality have risen and to market the time has decreased. This has generated a major decision challenge for the embedded system’s architect and product managers. Now, they have to select the processor, operating systems, and standard of usage very carefully.
The systems application of modern days follows the pattern insight from real life. These systems have grown to be more than a part of human life. The best example for this is the significance of mobile phones in the human race. Avoiding the presence of mobile phones is virtually impossible for all facets of human endeavor. The designers and developers search for patterns in different application spaces. This gives them a clear understanding of trends where embedded systems’ future is heading.
Just developing a properly working new embedded system does not assure its success. Rather, it depends on the facts of how fast people can adapt to the changes, which are the result of convergence between communications, nano, manufacturing and development of application.
Conclusion: The article discusses the evolution of embedded systems and what changes have occurred since its birth.
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