Embedded testing - Embedded system (Part 2)

 In this second blog post related to embedded testing, firstly I would like to explain an embedded system. Click here to view the first post.

What does embedded mean? It is something integrated into another thing. For example, an embedded hyperlink is text that acts as a link instead of an actual link (https://www.google.com can be Google). Embedded content is content used in a website from another source. When you attach an Excel sheet to the PowerPoint presentation, it is called an embedded file.

An embedded system is a device that incorporates all the relevant components such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, memory, input/output units, drivers, bus, and many more. The embedded system is designed to work with a combination of hardware and software to perform specific tasks to achieve functionalities within a larger system.

If a human user of a system is only partially aware that they are interacting with a computer running software, then it is an embedded software system. - Job Duncan Hagar (Book: Software Test Attacks to Break Mobile and Embedded Devices)


Types of embedded systems
Embedded systems are divided into various categories. Some of them are with examples:
  • Standalone embedded system 
    • Smartwatches, coffeemakers, digital cameras
  • Real-time embedded system 
    • Pacemakers, airbag control systems in vehicles, online gaming consoles, video streaming services, video conferencing tools
  • Non-real-time embedded system
    • Washing machines, microwave ovens, refrigerators
  • Mobile embedded system
    • Mobile phones, portable medical devices such as blood glucose monitors, pulse oximeters, blood pressure monitors
  • Network embedded system
    • IoT devices such as smart bulbs, smart door
  • Embedded systems based on microcontrollers/microprocessors
    • Printers, security cameras, medical imaging devices
  • Special purpose embedded system
    • The radar system, missile tracking systems, and surveillance drones for the military
    • Parking assistance systems        

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