Embedded Systems

What is an embedded system?

An embedded system is a computer system with a single function, inside a larger mechanical unit
Examples of embedded systems include
- Heating thermostats
- Hospital equipment
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Coffee machines
- Satellite navigation systems
- Factory Equipment
- Traffic lights

embedded-systems-

What are the properties of an embedded system?

They are small in size
They use less power than a general-purpose computer
They have a lower cost

Exam Tip

Always use key examples from the list above and don’t try to use different examples such as a fridge or kettle as these will not appear on mark schemes because although they have a single purpose, most fridges and kettles do not have a CPU.

Worked example

1) Tick two boxes below to show which are an example of an embedded system [2]

	Is it an example of an embedded system
Laptop
Washing Machine
Mobile Phone
Car Engine Management System

2) Justify your choice to question 1 [2]

1) Tick two boxes below to show which are an example of an embedded system. [2]

	Is it an example of an embedded system
Laptop
Washing Machine	✓
Mobile Phone
Car Engine Management System	✓

2) Justify your choice to question 1 [2]

Any two of:

A washing machine and car engine management system are not general-purpose computers [1]
A washing machine and car engine management system have a single purpose and are both housed inside a larger mechanical unit [1]
A washing machine and car engine management system have a microprocessor [1]

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