Characteristics Of Embedded Systems

Embedded computing systems generally exhibit rich functionality—complex functionality is usually the reason for introducing CPUs into the design. However, they also exhibit many non-functional requirements that make the task especially challenging:

• Real-time deadlines that will cause system failure if not met;
• Multi-rate operation
• In many cases, low power consumption
• Low manufacturing cost, which often means limited code size.
• Must be efficient
• Energy efficient
• Code-size efficient (especially for systems on a chip)
• Run-time efficient
• Weight efficient
• Cost efficient
• Dedicated towards a certain application
Knowledge about behavior at design time can be used to minimize resources and to maximize robustness
• Dedicated user interface (no mouse, keyboard and screen)
• Hybrid systems (analog + digital parts).