Embedded Systems

An embedded system is ......

• A computer that performs only one task

• A small computer that is built into a bigger system

• A small computer, built into a larger system, that performs a dedicated task

• A computer that responds to its environment

Answer explanation

An embedded system is a small computer that is built into a larger system and performs a dedicated task. It is designed to perform specific functions within a larger system, often with real-time constraints. This makes it different from a general-purpose computer that can perform multiple tasks and is not necessarily integrated into a larger system.

Most embedded systems act in real time.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True is the correct answer. Most embedded systems are designed to perform specific tasks in real-time, meaning they must respond to inputs and events within a specific time frame. This real-time functionality is crucial for many applications, such as automotive systems, medical devices, and industrial control systems, where timely responses are essential for proper operation and safety.

A microcontroller is an integral part of an embedded system. A microcontroller contains ....

• CPU, memory, actuators, sensors

• CPU and memory

• CPU and a power source

Answer explanation

A microcontroller is a small computer on a single integrated circuit, designed for embedded systems. It consists of a central processing unit (CPU) and memory, which are essential for processing and storing data. While actuators and sensors are often connected to microcontrollers, they are not part of the microcontroller itself. Therefore, the correct answer is that a microcontroller contains a CPU and memory.

A sensor ....

• holds the program instructions in the microcontroller

• supplies information from the outside world to the microprocessor

• converts output instructions into mechanical actions

• provides power to the microcontroller

Answer explanation

The question asks about the function of a sensor in relation to a microcontroller or microprocessor. The correct answer is that a sensor supplies information from the outside world to the microprocessor. This means that the sensor acts as an input device, gathering data from the environment and sending it to the microprocessor for processing.

A actuator ....

• holds the program instructions in the microcontroller

• supplies information from the outside world to the microprocessor

• converts output instructions into mechanical actions

• provides power to the microcontroller

Answer explanation

The question asks about the function of an actuator in the context of a microcontroller. The correct answer is that an actuator converts output instructions into mechanical actions. This means that it takes the digital signals from the microcontroller and translates them into physical movements or operations, which is a key function in many automated systems.

Which of these is not a feature of an embedded system

• Low power consumption

• single purpose

• high maintenance

• responsive to their environment

• usually operates in real time

Answer explanation

An embedded system is a computer system designed for a specific purpose, with low power consumption, responsiveness to its environment, and real-time operation. High maintenance is not a feature of embedded systems, as they are typically designed to be efficient and reliable with minimal intervention.

What makes an embedded system part of the Internet of Things?

• using intelligent storage

• operating in real time

• connection to the Internet

• having a minimal or no user interface

Answer explanation

An embedded system becomes part of the IoT when it is connected to the Internet. This connectivity allows the system to communicate with other devices and systems, enabling data exchange and remote control. The other options, such as intelligent storage, real-time operation, and minimal user interface, are characteristics of embedded systems but do not necessarily make them part of the IoT.

Which of these devices is not part of the Internet of Things?

• a drinks dispenser that sends a reorder request to the supplier

• windscreen wipers that respond to water on the windscreen

• pacemaker that keeps a heart beating at a normal rate

• A door bell with a camera

Answer explanation

Windscreen wipers that respond to water on the windscreen are not part of the IoT because they do not connect to the internet or communicate with other devices. The other options, such as a drinks dispenser, pacemaker, and doorbell with a camera, involve internet connectivity and data exchange, making them IoT devices.

Which of these is not a concern about Internet of Things devices?

• use of a default password which potentially makes access easy for hackers

• privacy concerns around the huge amount of personal data collected

• security issues around updating software in the embedded system

• concerns around the embedded system making incorrect decisions

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'concerns around the embedded system making incorrect decisions' because it is not a primary concern related to IoT devices. The other options, such as default passwords, privacy concerns, and security issues, are all valid concerns associated with IoT devices and their potential vulnerabilities.

What are the main components of an embedded system?

• processor, display, operating system, firmware

• sensor, actuator, power supply, network interface

• keyboard, monitor, printer, scanner

• microcontroller, memory, input/output devices, software

Answer explanation

The main components of an embedded system are the microcontroller, memory, input/output devices, and software. The microcontroller is the brain of the system, memory stores data, input/output devices allow interaction with the system, and software controls the operation of the system. Other options include components that are not necessarily part of every embedded system.