Embedded Computers

Description

Embedded computers are compact, all-in-one, special purpose programmable devices, which are used to compute one or few specific real-time tasks in many industrial applications. An embedded computer is entrenched into a complete device, which includes other mechanical and hardware parts. Embedded computers are used to process only specifc dedicated tasks that do not need a complete PC, which is used to perform multiple tasks by programming.

Types

Many types of embedded computers are available in the market today, of which the most important and commonly used types are listed below:

• Automation embedded computers
• Industrial embedded computers
• Wireless embedded computers
• Heavy duty embedded computers

The other common types of embedded computers are:

• Single board embedded computers
• Low power embedded computers
• Rugged embedded computers
• Wrack-mount embedded computers
• Wall-mount embedded computers

Features

The features of embedded computers:

• Expandable and more flexible
• Fanless and low power consumption
• Data processing is probably higher compared with normal computers
• Support multiple software system platforms
• Enhanced ruggedization
• Network access capability is possibly high
• Support OEM applications
• Compatible with most operating systems
• Reprogrammable
• Thermal conduction is highly dexterous

Applications

Some of the important applications of embedded computers are listed below:

• Industrial embedded computers are used for industrial monitoring and controlling
• Automation embedded computers are mainly used for system control, monitoring, information processing, logging, and protocol renovation
• Wireless embedded computers are a potent and resourceful solution for industrial applications that require a compact, programmable platform to facilitate wireless communication
• Heavy duty embedded computers are deliberately made rugged to endure shocks/vibrations and are designed for operation under demanding environments
• Embedded computers are used in military applications
• Embedded computers are now used to manage the solar power generation system to exploit the energy competence
• Used in hardware design and implementation
• They are used in surveillance functions such as recognition, detection, tracking, etc