Software Engineering for Embedded Systems: Chapter 1. Software Engineering of Embedded and Real-Time Systems

by Robert Oshana

An embedded system is a computer system designed for a specific function within a larger system, and often has one or more real-time computing constraints. It is embedded as part of a larger device which can include hardware and mechanical parts. This is in stark contrast to a general-purpose computer, which is designed to be flexible and meet a wide range of end-user needs. The methods, techniques, and tools for developing software systems that were successfully applied to general purpose computing are not as readily applicable to embedded computing. Software systems running on networks of mobile, embedded devices must exhibit properties that are not always required of more traditional systems such as near-optimal performance, robustness, distribution, dynamism, and mobility. This chapter will examine the key properties of software systems in the embedded, resource-constrained, mobile, and highly distributed world. The applicability of mainstream software engineering methods is assessed and techniques (e.g., software design, component-based development, software architecture, system integration and test) are also discussed in the context of this domain. This chapter will overview embedded and real-time systems.

53 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2013