Embedded systems Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science revision
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In plain words
Not every computer has a screen and a keyboard. A washing machine has a computer inside it. So does a microwave oven, a set of traffic lights, a car's braking system. Each is built into a larger device to do one job.
5 things to know
- An embedded system is a computer system built into a larger device to perform a dedicated function.
- A general-purpose computer, such as a laptop or a PC, can perform many different functions.
- Examples: domestic appliances such as washing machines, cars, security systems, lighting systems and vending machines.
- An embedded system has a microprocessor, memory, and inputs and outputs. Its program is usually stored in ROM and is not normally changed by the user.
- Because it does one job, it can be small, cheap to make in large numbers, use little power and be very reliable.
Worked example
Is a smartphone an embedded system? What about the computer in a microwave oven?
- A smartphone runs many different apps: calls, maps, games, a camera. It performs many functions, so it is a general-purpose computer.
- The computer in a microwave oven does one thing: it controls the oven, using the keypad, the timer and the door sensor.
- So the microwave's computer is an embedded system and the phone is not.
Tips and tricks
- The key phrase is "dedicated function". If the device can only do the job it was built for, the computer inside is embedded.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Embedded systems: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
What is an embedded system?
One device, one job.
Which of these contains an embedded system?
The others are general-purpose computers.
Which is a general-purpose computer?
A laptop can run many different programs.
Where is the program of an embedded system usually stored?
It needs to be there the moment the device is switched on, and is rarely changed.
Which is an advantage of an embedded system?
It only needs the hardware for its one job.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 4 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Embedded systems
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 · 4 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Describe what is meant by an embedded system.[2]
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A computer system built into a larger device, which performs one dedicated function.
Give two examples of devices that contain an embedded system.[2]
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A washing machine and a vending machine. (Also: a car, a security alarm, a lighting system.)
Answers: Embedded systems
- 1. A computer system built into a larger device, which performs one dedicated function.
- 2. A washing machine and a vending machine. (Also: a car, a security alarm, a lighting system.)