The document provides an overview of embedded systems. It defines embedded systems as devices used to control, monitor or assist equipment that contain both computer hardware and software. The document then classifies embedded systems based on performance and functional requirements such as real-time, standalone, networked, mobile, and sophistication. Examples of embedded system applications are given across several industries like automobiles, telecommunications, smart cards, missiles, satellites, and consumer electronics. The document concludes by explaining how embedded systems are implemented using either digital circuits or microprocessor-based systems.