An Embedded System is simply a combination of computer hardware and software, either fixed in operability or programmable, which is designed to perform a specific function. It is called an embedded system because it is embedded in a much complex device to control, enhance or assist the operation of that device. Take, for example, any latest car. The automatic transmission, GPS navigation, sunroof, radio, anti-lock brakes inside the car are all embedded systems.
Although embedded systems have the potential to perform a number of functions, they serve the best when used to perform a single key function. Engineers who specialize in developing embedded systems have strong knowledge of programming and electronics. Read on to know the characteristics of embedded systems and eligibility, skills set & career prospects for embedded systems.
Major Characteristics of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems usually vary from the general purpose computer systems in a lot ways. Major characteristics of such systems are as follows:
1. Single Key function: Unlike software like Microsoft Word & Excel or a database, an embedded system runs a single program repeatedly.
2. Direct interaction with the real world: Embedded systems usually communicate with the real world environment through sensors and user interfaces. The users of embedded systems can directly control or modify their attributes when needed.
3. Operate under tight boundaries: Embedded systems have restricted resources in terms power consumption, memory and interfaces for connecting with other systems.
4. Developed on “reactive” principles: Since embedded systems are developed to serve a dedicated function, they are generally built using reactive principles such that their operation is stimulated by an external action.
5. High reliability: Embedded systems are integrated in machines and are expected to work continuously for years without issues and in some cases even recover on their own.
Eligibility
In order to be eligible to work as an embedded system engineer, the minimum requirement is to be a graduate with a technical background, preferably B.E, B.Tech or BCA in Computer Science, Electronics or Electrical Engineering.
Skills Required
When it comes to skills, it is preferable for a candidate to have strong software coding and debugging skills, some hardware integration knowledge and strong problem solving skills.
Programming Skills
- Good skills on C and C++ programming
- Knowledge of real time operating systems and embedded Linux system design.
- Knowledge for Object Oriented Programming (OOP).
- Knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
- Knowledge of network architecture and communication protocols such as Ethernet, TCP/IP etc.
Debugging Skills
- Familiarity with assembler, compiler, linker and loader.
- Some knowledge of source-level debugger, in-circuit emulators (ICE) and JTAG debuggers
- Some knowledge of tools like memory testers, Execution tracers and Coverage testers.
Electronics Skills
One doesn’t need to have a detailed knowledge of electronics but the basic knowledge of microprocessors and electronics concepts, like memory addressing, serial ports etc, is preferable.
Problem Solving Skills
Real world problem solving skills are very crucial in this domain. An embedded system engineer might spend quite some time troubleshooting an issue. Problem solving skills are thus a must.
Career Prospects
A career in embedded systems is an excellent option available for students today. According to a recent NASSCOM report, the total embedded system global business is expected to reach around $90 billion by 2015, wherein India alone is expected to have a share of around $16 billion.
This industry has a lot of scope in a lot of domains like IT, telecommunication, Robotics, Automobile and Manufacturing industries. Companies which specialize in developing embedded systems for controlling traffic and railway signals, power plants, pharmaceutical factories etc are likely to hire embedded systems engineers.
Companies
Some top companies in the embedded systems domain are Samsung, Intel, Volvo, Philips, Qualcomm, HCL, L&T, Robert Bosch, Honeywell etc.
These companies are hiring for various roles like:
- Embedded Systems Engineer/Developer/Programmer
- Embedded Systems Tester
- Support Package Developer
- Protocol Development Engineer
- Embedded Systems SME (Subject Matter Expert)
According to NASSCOM, the embedded industry would hire around 680,000 for embedded systems by 2015, but the industry is facing the problem of talent shortage.
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