Basics of Embedded System

What is an Embedded System?

In this blog, we are going to learn basics of embedded system. It is a combination of MP/MC based hardware and software with some mechanical parts to perform a specific task is called embedded system.

Eg: Printer, Mouse, Refrigerator, ATM, Automatic Washing Machine, Engineering Calculators, Digital Camera, Industrial Robots, etc.

What is Program?

A program is a series of instructions that cause a computer or a microcontroller to perform a particular task. It also contains data and various memory addresses on which the Instructions work to perform a specific task.

Programming languages in Embedded Systems

• C and C++ (most widely used)
• Rust
• Assembly
• Java
• Python

What is microprocessor?

A microprocessor is a semiconductor integrated circuit with billions of transistors to perform arithmetic logical and many other instructions. Nowadays, the common name for a microprocessor is a CPU.

for example, you can attach a microprocessor to a light and light sensor to make it automatically turn off and on upon existance of daylight conditions.

Applications of microprocessors (MPs) mainly include controllers for home appliances, wireless communication devices, automation, video games, traffic single control systems, etc.

What is microcontroller?

Microcontroller (MCU) is a small computer system on a single chip. But, its resources and capabilities such as memory, speed, external interfaces are very much limited than of a desktop computer because of MCU targets embedded applications.

A typical microcontrolller includes a processor, volatile and non-volatile memories, input/output(I/O) pins, peripherals, clock, bus interface on a single chip.

Block Diagram of a Microcontroller

Also Read: RISC and CISC Computer Architecture

What is an IDE?

An IDE, or Integrated Development Environment, enables programmers to consolidate the different aspects of writing a computer program.

What are Common IDE Components?

• Compiler, Assembler, Linker, Loader
• Editor Window, Console window, Project window
• Debug/Release
• Memory window
• Register window
• Break points, Watch points
• Debugger
• Programming Options

Software Development Flow

Also Read: MQTT Ethernet using Arduino UNO

What is GCC?

The GNU compiler collection, commonly known as GCC, is a set of compilers and development tools available for Linux, Windows, various BSDs, and a wide assortment of other operating systems.