Examples of Embedded Systems in daily life

Computer, a multitasking marvelous machine that has been proving a wonderful invention of the world, day after day, enthusiastic technicians and scientists are discovering magnificent features of this machine. Still there is a lot to get to know about this miraculous gadget. Technology has brought us at the stage that now with the help of computers; man can control the artificial satellites in space. In fact, no one in this world today can be unaware of this wonderful invention which has revolutionized the human life.

Embedded Computer Systems

Usually when we talk about a computer, the image that is reflected in our minds is a monitor screen having a case (system unit) placed at its one side along with a keyboard and mouse settled in front of it. Yes! We inadvertently visualize a desktop computer whenever we hear the word “computer". Indeed this is not the only form we acknowledge by the name of computer. You might not be aware of the fact that a toaster we toast our breads in, an air conditioner cooling down our heated up rooms, a juicer, a microwave oven, calculators etc are also computers. Astonished??? Let me reveal this surprising actuality.

In the race of these fast multi talented computers (that are available to us in the formations of laptop, tablets, smart phones, desktops etc) performing several tasks simultaneously, such incredible devices have also come across which have made our lives more than efficient. Though they do not perform various tasks concurrently, still these single tasking computers matter a lot for us. These gadgets boost up our lives in one way or the other. These single job holders are called "embedded computer systems".

The definition would give you a clear Introduction to Embedded systems to provide you an accurate concept about embedded systems basics.

"Embedded computer systems are specially designed to perform a particular task. As explained earlier, they do not perform multiple tasks but are assigned a dedicated function to perform".

Examples of Embedded Systems in daily life

Basically, embedded systems are lying inside large electronic devices which are designed to accomplish a specific task.The examples would make us understand application of embedded system in consumer electronics in a better way.

One of the best examples of embedded systems in daily life is ATM (Automated Teller Machine). Almost everyone is aware of this useful device today. Although the basic services which can be obtained from an ATM machine involve cash withdrawal from bank accounts and checking the bank balance only, yet we cannot deny its valuable service in banks today.

People are not required to depend on other persons for transaction purposes; all we need to do is to enter a personal identification number (PIN) which must match the PIN stored in the chip on the card or in the issuing financial institution's database in order to have access to our bank deposits. 

Another example of embedded computer systems e.g. a washing machine, would help us explain these special purpose computers that have brought us convenience and ease in several ways.

Washing machine, an intrinsic need of every home, also has an embedded system installed in it. Latest technology has even brought us towards more enhanced modes of washing machine. The washing machines having automatic modes are intelligent enough to control all of the working as soon as the system is turned on. The embedded systems installed in these automatic washing machines allow these gadgets to control each and every task very smartly.

This automatic embedded computer perform all the tasks taking every decision by itself i.e. how much water is needed to wash specific number of clothes, the amount of detergent need to be added, washing clothes, drying the clothes and even turning the system off at the end, All the jobs are determined and accomplished at the exact time.

Though contributing exclusively, these embedded computer systems are outstanding.

In comparison with personal or desktop computers, these general purpose embedded systems consume low power. They are usually portable and small in sizes. Due to less power utilization, some embedded computers are very advantageous. They can be operated on batteries and their light weight makes them bring anywhere we want.

Thus from all these examples of embedded systems in daily life, we come to the conclusions by praising these outstanding embedded systems for enriching us with awesome inventions that help us performing our little tasks making them less complicated for us .