An embedded system is a specialized computer designed to perform a specific task. It consists of both hardware and software components that are tailored to the needs of the particular application it serves. Embedded systems are prevalent in many everyday devices, and they outnumber general-purpose computers such as laptops. The following are examples of an embedded system.
Vehicles
Vehicles may include multiple embedded systems each with its own hardware and software. For example, a system might monitor engine performance while another system might monitor safety to produce warnings.
Toys
Toys with advanced features such as a talking doll are implemented with embedded systems.
Electronics
Electronics big and small such as a washing machine or game controller.
Buildings
Components of buildings and interior design such as an automatic door.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure such as a canal gate that can be remotely controlled by an operator.
Power Systems
A solar panel system that transmits performance information to a management server.
Supply Chain
Elements of a supply chain such as a temperature-controlled container that records temperatures to guarantee that a cold shipment was never exposed to a high temperature.
Industrial
Factory equipment such as a robot.
Networking
Network devices such as a wifi router.
Cities
Smart city infrastructure such as solar lighting that self-manages its power capacity.
Theme Parks
A car on a roller coaster that monitors vibrations and seat belts that can slow and stop the attraction if it finds a problem.
Fashion
In theory, fashion could use computers to implement features such as shoes that change colors and patterns on command.
Medicine
Computers in medical devices such as a heart monitor.
