Embedded Systems (AQA GCSE Computer Science)

Revision Note

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Embedded Systems

What is an embedded system?

  • An embedded system is a computer system with a dedicated function, inside a larger mechanical unit

  • A non-embedded system is a computer system with multiple functions, referred to a general-purpose machine

  • Examples of embedded systems include

    • Heating thermostats

    • Hospital equipment

    • Washing machines

    • Dishwashers

    • Coffee machines

    • Satellite navigation systems

    • Factory Equipment

    • Traffic lights

embedded-systems-

What are the properties of an embedded system?

  • An embedded system compared to a non-embedded system is typically:

    • smaller in size

    • lower power

    • lower cost

    • lower processing power 

    • lower memory

Examiner Tip

Always use key examples from the list above and don’t try to use different examples such as a fridge or kettle as these will not appear on mark schemes because although they have a single purpose, most fridges and kettles do not have a CPU.

Worked Example

Describe two differences between an embedded system and a non-embedded system [2]

Answer

  • embedded systems have a specific purpose while non-embedded systems are general-purpose

  • embedded systems (tend to) have smaller amounts of memory than non-embedded systems

  • embedded systems (tend to) have less processing power than non-embedded systems

  • embedded systems are built into a specific device while non-embedded systems are not

  • embedded systems (tend to) have a higher proportion of ROM than non-embedded systems

Guidance

  • can be opposites of above

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