Computer systems are a combination of both hardware and software working together. Hardware is the physical components of a computer and software is the programs that run on a computer.
As well as general purpose computerA computer designed to be able to carry out a wide range of instructions., there are other types of computer system. The most common of these are known as embedded systemA special purpose computer built into another device..
An embedded system is a small computer that forms part of a larger system, device or machine. Its purpose is to control the device and to allow a user to interact with it. Embedded systems tend to have one, or a limited number of tasks that they can perform.
Examples of embedded systems include:
central heating systems
engine management systems in vehicles
domestic appliances, such as dishwashers, TVs and digital phones
digital watches
electronic calculators
GPS systems
fitness trackers
Embedded devices are not usually programmable by a user - the programming is usually done beforehand by the manufacturer. However, it is often possible to upgrade the softwareThe programs, applications and data in a computer system. Any parts of a computer system that aren't physical. on an embedded device. For example, fitness trackers are embedded systems, but the software can often be upgraded by connecting the device to a PC and installing the new software.
Embedded systems can have advantages over general purpose computers in that:
Their limited number of functions means they are cheaper to design and build.
They tend to require less power. Some devices run from batteries.
They do not need much processing power. They can be built using cheaper, less powerful processors.