Embedded Systems (AQA GCSE Computer Science)
Revision Note
Written by: Robert Hampton
Reviewed by: James Woodhouse
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
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 Tips and Tricks
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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