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.