1.1 Embedded systems

Question 1

embedded system

Answer 1

a computer system built into another device in order to control it

a computer system within a larger mechanical system with a dedicated function

Question 2

components in embedded systems

Answer 2

components are on a single printed circuit board (PCB) they include the:

• processor
• memory
• input and output interfaces

Question 3

input devices

Answer 3

could be manual switches, such as on washing machines

the input interfaces must convert changes in them into electrical signals

Question 4

PCB

Answer 4

printed circuit board

a base that supports the components that are soldered to it or fitted into sockets

Question 5

tasks

Answer 5

each embedded system is built for a small range of tasks

unlike desktop and laptop computers that are general purpose and are capable of carrying out many different tasks

Question 6

real-time systems

Answer 6

embedded systems are called real time systems because they must ensure an immediate response in order for the system to react to different situations

e.g. when the button is pressed on a camera, or the brakes are applied on a car

Question 7

Describe how an embedded system on either a dishwasher or traffic light works

Answer 7

dishwasher: you can input data through buttons that tell it what to do (e.g. how long to run for)
it will process the instructions and output them by using water/steam to clean the things inside

traffic light: inputs data when people press the button
processes it as telling it to change the colour of the light
outputs it by changing the lights/colour

Question 8

Many modern devices use embedded systems to function properly.

Explain one function of an embedded system in a washing machine [2]

Answer 8

it monitors the water temperature so that it can turn the heating element on and off to maintain the correct temperature

Question 9

Many modern devices contain embedded systems.

a) Define the term ‘embedded system’ [1]
b) Explain the role of embedded systems in real-time applications [2]

Answer 9

a) an embedded system is a computer system built into another device in order to control it
b) the role of embedded systems in real-time applications is to monitor and respond to an external environment by processing input from sensors