Re: What does 'embedded' really mean?

Mike Noone wrote:

I was recently asked what 'embedded' really means, and I did not have a
good answer. Can anybody try to define it? I just am not sure as to a
concrete definition - I only can give examples of what is and what
isn't embedded.

-Mike

In my opinion, the most important feature defining an embedded computer
(digital system) as opposed to a general-purpose computer is the specific
function the embedded computer is supposed to provide. As a corollary, the
user interface of an embedded system is very simple (allowing only
configuration, not development), or even non existing, as in completely
automatic systems.

Worth mentioning, the size is not important. I wouldn't consider a PDA,
although small size (compared to desktop / laptop computers), being an
embedded computer. It's just nowadays stage of technology when we can
afford such miniaturisation. I can imagine in the near future a microsystem
attached to my goggles that I can speak to in C language and develop
software applications onto and this will still be a general-purpose
computer.

Regards,
Adrian
.