In this Article
- Embedded Systems: What are they and where are they used?
- How do Embedded Systems work?
- PC System Requirements
- Embedded System Design
- Embedded Systems Examples
- Programming an Embedded System
- Embedded OS Software vs. Non Embedded OS Software
- Advantages of Embedded Systems
- Fanless Embedded Systems
- Rugged Embedded Systems
- Panel PCs and HMIs
- Motherboards and SBCs
- Computer-On-Modules
Embedded Systems: What are they and where are they used?
Embedded PC Systems are small computerised devices that are designed to perform a dedicated function and have been “built” or embedded into larger systems. For example:
- Intelligent Transportation
- Household Appliances
- Airplanes
- Vending Machines
- Toys
Embedded Systems are a combination of a CPU, memory and I/O devices, they are designed with a purpose that’s unique to their user. Therefore, they are able to perform specific functions, within a range of Harsh Environments, such as Marine, Vehicle and Rail. In essence, Embedded Systems process information and control, monitor or assist the operation of both equipment and machinery.
How do Embedded Systems work?
Embedded System works by incorporating a rugged motherboard into an industrial enclosure, with associated I/O and a Software to fulfil a function in an embedded environment. The computing element is an Embedded Motherboard, which is the feature packed small form factor, heart of an Embedded System. Specialist I/O such as video capture, communication ports, digital and analogue signals are connected into the computing heart for the system to work.
An embedded operating system runs on the embedded system allowing application software to utilise the features to provide the required functionality in the embedded environment.
PC System Requirements
The computing heart of an embedded system is an industrial grade PC motherboard with the relevant performance and I/O requirements. The embedded motherboard will be a form factor such as 3.5 SBC, Pico-ITX, Nano-ITX or UTX.
Embedded motherboards are compact but still offer good performance, with technology such as AMD Ryzen R and V series Embedded CPU’s and Intel’s latest generation embedded CPU families. Industrial grade components will also be selected for the PC board such as DRAM and storage which may also need wide temperature range operation. Most systems now use Solid State Drives (SSD) such as mSATA direct plug-on or 2.5” form factor.
Embedded System Design
BVM Embedded Systems are designed for use in a different environment to that of usual office computer equipment. They have to be able to cope with much more demanding conditions such as wide temperature ranges, difficult power supply conditions and shock and vibration situations. The engineer / designer takes into account the intended area of use of the system and specifies a suitable enclosure which may be steel or extruded aluminium for example. Heat dissipation needs to be addressed and often requires the use of conducted cooling or heat pipe arrangements as cooling fans cannot always be used.
The finished item is unlikely to resemble any desktop or laptop PC,
but is more likely a rugged “black box”
Embedded Systems Examples
Here are a few examples of embedded computer system’s designed and manufactured by BVM.
Programming an Embedded System
- Real-time applications often use a Real Time Operating System (RTOS) programmed in C++. For immediate response needs, ADA is utilized directly without RTOS.
- Non-real-time projects can use Microsoft Windows Embedded OS, like Windows 10 Embedded, which offers strong driver support for easier C++ development.
- Linux also provides good driver support and is royalty-free, though it requires careful handling of licensable components.
Embedded OS Software vs. Non Embedded OS Software
An Embedded Operating System is often built directly into a device, typically residing on a chip or hard drive. These systems, such as Windows 10 IoT Core, are more limited than full-scale operating systems and are designed to run just a single UWP application and supporting background apps on devices with minimal specifications (256MB RAM, 2GB storage | X86 or ARM CPU). Embedded Operating Systems are crucial for the functionality of devices like Smart Watches or Digital Signs, requiring high reliability and seamless operation.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is another embedded operating system, Windows 10 Enterprise IoT is similar to a “full version” of Windows 10 without Edge Browser and Cortana, it does have advanced lockdown capabilities and designed to run on a wider range of hardware (2GB RAM, 16 GB Storage | X86 or X64 CPU).
In contrast, Non-Embedded OS Software tends to run from a hard disk or an SSD. Non-embedded operating systems such as Windows 10 tend to be highly user configurable and up-gradable, and they are designed for general purpose use.
Advantages of Embedded Systems
For long-term use, Embedded Computer Systems are better than standalone, general purpose “office” computers. Embedded Systems offer many benefits, such as:
- They’re task specific
- They can cope with demanding conditions
- They cover a wide variety of industrial environments
- They’re less likely to encore errors
- Their system hardware is simplified, which reduces costs overall.
- They can have a have a fanless design
- The use of less power than desktop systems ensures there is no need for cooling.
Check out our selection of Embedded Systems and Industrial PC Systems below to see how they can enhance your project…
Fanless Embedded Systems
We have wide range of fanless embedded PC systems suited to different environments. These range from off the shelf systems available as fully configured systems with memory, storage or as a ‘bare bones’ system for user completion to bespoke custom designed systems.
Rugged Embedded Systems
Rugged Industrial Computers and Embedded Systems specifically designed to operate reliably in harsh environments and conditions, such as strong vibrations, extreme temperatures and wet or dusty areas. Available with Intel i3 / i5 / i7 / Celeron and AMD Ryzen Embedded CPU’s.
Panel PCs and HMIs
BVM can supply a range of Panel PCs for industrial applications from 7″ TFT screen size and upwards, with resistive & pCAP touchscreens for interactivity. Our Panel PCs are available with the latest Intel iCore series, low powered Atom, AMD Ryzen Embedded and ARM CPU’s
Motherboards and SBCs
Small Form Factor Industrial and Embedded Motherboards. Mini-ITX Motherboards, 3.5″ SBC, NUC (4″x4″), Industrial Pi, Pico-ITX modules and more.
Computer-On-Modules
COM Express Mini, COM Express Compact, COM Express Basic, and Qseven modules and carrier boards based on the latest Intel, AMD, and ARM platforms.
If you cant find an off the shelf embedded system that meets your specific requirements, speak with our in house design team who can design a new product from start to finish.
We like to make life easier ….
BVM supply a wide and diverse range of Industrial and Embedded Systems. From Industrial Motherboards, SBCs and Box PCs, to Rack Mount computers and Industrial Panel PCs so, if you cant find an off the shelf system that meets your specific requirements speak with our in house design team who can design a new product from start to finish.
You can either call us directly on +(0) 1489 780 144 and talk to one of the team | E-mail us at sales@bvmltd.co.uk | Use the contact form on our website