Cambridge O Level Computer Science · Syllabus 2210 · Hardware
Embedded System
What is Embedded System?
A computer system built into a larger device to perform a dedicated function or a limited set of functions; it typically uses a microprocessor or microcontroller running software written for that specific purpose, and differs from a general-purpose computer, which is used to perform many different functions.
This definition is part of the Hardware chapter in Cambridge O Level Computer Science.
Common mistakes with Embedded System
- 14. “An embedded system has no software.” Why wrong A washing machine controller executes millions of instructions to run a wash cycle. Something has to tell it what to do. Correct model An embedded system runs software written for its specific purpose. What makes it different is that the user does not choose, install or replace that software — not that there is none. Exam-safe “An embedded system performs a dedicated function using software designed for that specific purpose.” Check: what does “dedicated” actually describe — the number of instructions, or the purpose?The purpose. The system exists to do one job; it still executes very many instructions to do it.
Questions students ask about Embedded System
What is an embedded system, and does it run without software?
An embedded system is a computer system built into a larger device to perform a dedicated function or a limited set of functions, typically using a microprocessor running software written for that specific purpose. It is not true that it runs without software — a device such as a washing machine controller executes very many instructions to run a wash cycle. What makes it "dedicated" is its fixed purpose, and that the user does not choose, install or replace that software, not the absence of software itself.