Introduction and History of Embedded Systems

1. • Introduction to Embedded Systems
• History of Embedded Systems

2. History of Embedded Systems
The first mass produced embedded system :
 The guidance computer for the Minuteman missile in 1961. The
computer is named Autonetics D-17 guidance computer.
https://youtu.be/K19kQhOqHSk
Image extracted from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D-17B

3. History of Embedded Systems
The first consumer-oriented microprocessor
was Intel 4004. This was used in calculators and
small systems.
https://youtu.be/cVD5qKIY6ZM
Image extracted from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intel_4004

4. History of Embedded Systems
 In 1970’s 8 bit microprocessor was the norm.
 Required external memory chips, decoding logic
and interfaces to the external world.
 In 1980’s Intel MCS-51, a single chip
microcontroller was developed.
 By the end of 1980’s embedded systems were
the norm. This trend continued ever since.

5. Characteristics of Embedded Systems
 Cost and Power Consumption
 Reliability
 Life Threatening
 Availability ( 24 * 7 * 365)
 Performance
 Programs on an Embedded system must run with
real-time constraints with limited hardware
resources.
These are design challenges as well.

6. Properties of Embedded Systems
 Heterogeneous : Software, Electronics,
Mechanical components, Optics etc.
 Complex : Real time requirements, low-power,
reliable
 Flexible : Remote maintenance, time to market,
personalized
 Communicative : Networked, connected,
unobtrusively communicating, typically by means
of sensors and actuators.
 Decentralized control, adaptive behaviour, self
configuring, self restoring.

7. Where Embedded Systems are using?

8. Computers as Components by Wayne Wolf 2e - Cover

9. Where Embedded Systems are using?
 ATMs(Automatic Teller Machines)
 Cell Phones & Phone Switches(EPABXs etc)
 Network routers, timer servers, firewalls
 Computer peripherals(Printers, disk drivers, floppy
controllers)
 Engine controllers, antilock break controllres for
automobiles etc.
 PLCs in Process Control Insutry
 Home Appliances : Air conditioner, DVD players, TVs, Video
Games, Security Monitoring systems
 Avionics : Missiles, tracking systems, etc.

10. Where Embedded Systems are using?
 ATMs(Automatic Teller Machines)
 Cell Phones & Phone Switches(EPABXs etc)
 Network routers, timer servers, firewalls
 Computer peripherals(Printers, disk drivers, floppy
controllers)
 Engine controllers, antilock break controllres for
automobiles etc.
 PLCs in Process Control Insutry
 Home Appliances : Air conditioner, DVD players, TVs, Video
Games, Security Monitoring systems
 Avionics : Missiles, tracking systems, etc.

11. Where Embedded Systems are using?
 Home : Dishwashers, Microwave ovens, VCRs,
Televisions, Cameras, Answering Machines, etc.
 Industrial Automation : RTU’s, Robots, PLC’s, Field
Devices, Elevators.
 Medical : Imaging Systems ( E.g. XRAY, MRI),
Patient monitors, etc.
 Office Automation : FAX machines, copiers,
telephones etc.
 Personal : PDA’s, Pagers, Cell Phones, Portable
MP3 players, GPS etc.

12. Examples of Embedded Systems
 Microprocessor Based Thermostat
This is designed for small cooling
and heating air handling systems
in residential and commercial
facilities.

13. Examples of Embedded Systems
 Cardiovascular X Ray Machine

14. Examples of Embedded Systems
 Curiosity rover: An Apple PowerBook on wheels
• 200MHz PowerPC 750 CPU
specifically hardened to withstand
radiation and space flight.
• 256MB of RAM, 250KB of read-
only memory(EEPROM)
• 2 GB of flash storage holds video
and scientific data before it is
transmitted to Earth
Extracted from https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/press_kits/MSLLaunch.pdf