Embedded Systems

In its simplest form, an embedded system is a computing system, built of a processor, memory, and input/output devices, with a dedicated function inside of a larger device or system. As computing power increased and computer footprints decreased, opportunities arose to use small computing systems inside of products to complete simple calculations and facilitate other tasks. These original Embedded Computing Systems (embedded = inside of products; system = does more than compute) lead to the development of more and more complex integrations with sensors and actuators.

Todays embedded systems are used in everyday consumer devices as well as complex medical and military systems – used to calculate, process, and coordinate information at super high speeds across networked equipment – and are fully customizable to specific challenges.

Embedded Systems is one of Boston Engineering’s Centers of Excellence. Learn more about how our Centers of Excellence define and support the commitment to our clients and the organizations we serve.

Embedded systems are used in any device that needs to calculate, process, and coordinate information. An embedded system application can range from  extremely simple commercial products, such as digital alarm clocks, to highly complex medical devices, such as an EKG machine. Because if the customizable nature of Embedded Systems, and the versatility of modern components (MCU and FPGA), companies employ embedded systems in a range of products, including:

There are three primary drivers to designing/upgrading an embedded system for use in your products:

• Increased Performance: compared to older systems, modern embedded systems provide unmatched speed, reliability, accuracy, and specificity that solves many product development problems. Additionally, installing an embedded system can extend the life of older products and increase equipment functionality within modern IoT and Industry 4.0 environments.
• Additional Integration: Embedded systems, especially when based on FPGA technology, allow for integration with wide ranges of sensors, COTS devices, equipment, and user interfaces, increasing the solution possibilities while enhancing product capabilities.
• Lower Costs: Embedded systems can reduce hardware costs compared to more complex computing devices. With increased I/O options, concerns over component sourcing and supply chains can be mitigated and converted to an opportunity.