Today’s technology is highly interconnected, and each system has a computer connected to it. Whether you’re using a smartphone to send text, call, play games, or command a robot to perform a task, everything has a little computer inside it acting as its brain.
So, what are these computers that power our everyday devices called? They are known as embedded systems that follow instructions, process data and interact with the surrounding environment. They are exceptionally versatile and adaptable, and hence, no part of modern smart devices remains untouched by them.
With the rise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Global Market Insights projects that the embedded software development market is slated to grow at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2032. In this blog, we’ll help you understand Embedded Doftware Development and uncover this powerful technology that can help you seamlessly customize and control hardware and software operations.
What is Embedded Software Development?
Embedded software is a computer built inside a device that can calculate, talk to other devices, and process data. It acts like a brain for the hardware, following instructions given by the software. The set of rules is written on a board called a printed circuit.
An automated teller machine (ATM) is an example of an embedded system that utilizes a set of computers to establish a network between the bank’s computer and the ATM. Many electronic devices in manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and telecommunications use such software to streamline operations and customer experiences.
How Does Embedded Software Development Work?
Developing embedded software is different from building personal computers because it focuses on managing specific hardware. Today, these systems are also developed as smart and intelligent devices, interconnected to perform specific tasks.
It should be noted that each embedded software is different. For example, the embedded software for a digital camera would be completely different from the one used in a dryer.
Hence, it is crucial to decide two things in the initial device design phase;
- Which hardware do you need to constitute the embedded software?
- How do you need it to be configured within that hardware device?
For custom embedded software development, a software development company can help you write machine-readable code in Python, Java, C, or C++.
Types of Embedded Software Development
Modern embedded software usually has microprocessors that already have memory storage and interfaces. For others, it can include CPUs, flash memory modules, ports, and power supplies. Hence, many types of embedded software can carry out operations beyond computing.
Functionality and Performance Based (System-level)
For embedded systems based on functions and performance, the system level is the most important layer. Hence, the software stack has different layers that interact with each other to perform tasks:
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Firmware
Firmware interacts directly with hardware, which is stored in read-only memory and is the foundation for other layers. It enables hardware boot-ups and provides abstraction layers for an operating system (OS) to run, such as printers, scanners, missile trackers, and TV remote controllers.
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Standalone Embedded Software
This embedded software can work independently without ending any host like a processor. Any data input is stored in analog or digital form and displayed on the connected device. Examples include digital watches, MP3 players, refrigerators, and washing machines.
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Real-time Embedded Software (RTES)
These types of embedded software are usually an OS or a real-time operating system (RTOS) that provides only the necessary minimal services to run embedded applications. They are mostly used in time-sensitive use cases like transportation and healthcare.
Hence, they can also be further categorized into soft and hard RTES. Soft RTES doesn’t need to follow time limits strictly, whereas hard RTES need to perform under deadlines. For example, a temperature sensor is a soft RTES, but an air traffic controller is a hard RTES.
Network Embedded Software (Middleware)
Middleware provides additional services beyond what the OS can offer. It enables smooth data management to simplify communication between components. These embedded software development services typically rely on either wireless or wired networks, hence the name networked.
These are built on general processors and consist of device drivers, communication protocols, sensors, and controllers. Examples include Point-of-Sale systems and security systems for offices and homes.
Mobile Embedded Software (Application level)
Application-level software sits at the top of the embedded software hierarchy and drives the primary functions of embedded software. It’s designed to perform specific tasks that provide direct interaction and benefits for the end-user.
They interact with the OS and hardware through application programming interfaces (APIs) provided by the OS and middleware. These are mobile and portable and can work on the go even though they might have some memory limitations. Examples include fitness trackers, digital cameras, and smartwatches.
Power Everyday Devices with Embedded Software
Build interactive embedded systems that operate seamlessly, meeting your target device needs.
Steps to Build Embedded Software
Since today’s world is highly connected, with the Internet of Things (IoT) powering every device, stable, safe, and reliable embedded system development is necessary.
Hence, a standardized approach must be followed to build embedded software, which requires businesses to consider both hardware and software requirements carefully.
Requirement Analysis
Analyzing your project requirements is the key as you have to decide which hardware you need, what type of functionality it should perform, how much speed it should have, and its limitations.
Pro Tip: Balance the rich features without burdening the system. It would be helpful to find out resource constraints like memory or processing power.
System Design and Environment Development
The system design heavily depends on the type of demands your project has. If you want to develop real-time embedded systems, you need to keep in mind the response times, such as a car braking system or a heart pulse monitor.
Pro Tip: Use an RTOS only when necessary for real-time tasks and complex scheduling. Make sure to choose IDEs, compilers, and debuggers that align with your hardware and programming language.
Coding and Deployment
When starting coding, ensure that you use a suitable programming language, considering factors like hardware constraints and real-time requirements. The right language maximizes hardware efficiency and enables tailored algorithms for your application.
Pro Tip: The software architecture is crucial for system integration, and firmware development is at the core. Building a basic prototype will help assess the hardware and identify necessary components and how they might work together.
Deployment and Integration
Integrate suitable communication interfaces (wired or wireless) based on project needs. Prioritize security with encryption, authentication, and secure boot. Thorough testing, including unit, integration, and system testing, is essential to identify and fix issues early.
Pro Tip: Consider using a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation environment to simulate the behavior of physical hardware and test your software in a controlled environment without the risks of damaging actual hardware.
Maintenance and Updates
Maintenance is an ongoing process, and it becomes vital to prioritize security, especially when handling sensitive data. Hence, make sure to check that you have implemented robust mechanisms like authentication and secure booting. Moreover, the embedded software also needs regular updates and monitoring to optimize costs and deliver consistent performance.
Pro Tip: Optimize your code for energy efficiency with techniques like low-power modes, code optimization, and hardware-specific power-saving features to extend battery life and improve system performance.
Technology Stack for Embedded Software Development
It’s crucial to consider factors like hardware constraints, real-time requirements, development team expertise, and long-term support. You can choose from ARM-based microcontrollers, RTOSes like FreeRTOS, and programming languages like C and C++.
Here’s how you can evaluate each option’s suitability for your specific project before making a decision:
Programming Languages
When choosing a programming language for embedded software, consider the capabilities and limitations of the selected hardware, such as memory capacity, processing capability, and software demands. C and C++ are widely used due to their efficiency and low-level control. Rust offers memory safety and modern syntax, while Python is easier to learn but might have performance limitations. Assembly language provides granular control but can be complex.
Development Tools and IDEs
Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) like Eclipse, Keil uVision, and IAR Embedded Workbench can be used for coding, debugging, and deployment. Other powerful tools include C Compilers like GCC and Debuggers like GDB and J-Link, simulators, emulators, version control systems, build automation tools, and CI/CD pipelines.
Hardware Platforms
Microcontrollers like ARM Cortex-M, and AVR are commonly used for their efficiency and low power consumption. Microprocessors like Intel x86 and PowerPC offer higher performance. System-on-chips (SoCs) integrate multiple components into a single chip, while single-board computers like Raspberry Pi and Arduino provide a versatile platform for prototyping.
Operating Systems
Real-time operating systems (RTOSs) are ideal for time-critical applications, ensuring timely task execution. Bare-metal systems offer direct hardware control but require more complex programming. Linux-based systems provide flexibility and a large community, while proprietary OSs are tailored to specific hardware or industries.
Communication Protocols
Wired protocols like SPI, UART, and I2C are suitable for short-range connections. Wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and LoRa offer flexibility and connectivity over distance. Other protocols like USB, Ethernet, and CAN bus have specific applications.
The choice of protocol depends on factors such as distance, data rate, power consumption, and the specific requirements of your embedded systems.
Top 5 Embedded Software Examples
Embedded system development is essential for the functioning of many modern technologies. They are used in various industries, from power imaging devices, surgical tools, and patient monitoring systems to controlling manufacturing systems and supervising operations.
Here are some top examples where it can be used:
Automotive Embedded Systems
Embedded software plays a crucial role in modern cars, enhancing their functionality and performance. ECUs use embedded software to optimize engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. They additionally power multimedia and navigation systems, offering entertainment, connectivity, and navigation assistance.
Embedded systems in cars have improved safety features, decreasing traffic fatalities. Examples of these systems include adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and lane departure warnings.
Consumer Electronics
Embedded software follows a set of instructions that tells electronic devices what to do. For example, in your fridge, it’s the software that controls the temperature and keeps your food fresh. Thus, embedded software development is essential for consumer electronics, powering their functions and providing a seamless user experience.
It manages apps, connectivity, batteries, and cameras in smartphones. It regulates temperature, cycles, timers, and energy modes in appliances. In drones, it handles navigation, stabilization, camera, and remote operations.
Medical Devices
Embedded software enables medical devices to perform complex tasks, from imaging equipment to diagnostic tools and patient monitoring systems. However, it must meet stringent regulatory requirements to ensure safety and reliability. Developers must adhere to standards like IEC 62304, which outlines the software development lifecycle.
In medical imaging devices, embedded system development processes images, analyzes data, and provides diagnostic insights. In surgical robotics, it controls the robotic arms, ensuring precision and safety during procedures. In patient monitoring systems, embedded software collects and analyzes patient data, alerting professionals to any discrepancies.
Industrial Automation
The use of embedded software in industrial automation refers to applying technology to control and monitor industrial processes with automated systems. It involves utilizing computers, robots, and other advanced technologies to streamline production, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs.
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robots, sensors, actuators, and control systems are used to enhance manufacturing, assembly lines, packaging, material handling, quality control, and logistics.
With the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), it is possible to build more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective operations.
Aerospace and Defense
Embedded systems bring better controls in aircraft operations through flight control systems, avionics, communication systems, and navigation systems. Missile systems can also be guided through embedded software to their targets with better accuracy, precision, guidance, navigation, and control functions.
Communication, navigation, and weapon systems in military vehicles can enhance situational awareness and operational capabilities. Similarly, Embedded systems control the flight, navigation, and payload operations of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for autonomous flight and data collection.
Build Your Own Embedded Software
Tap into the automated world and harness the power of embedded software across vast applications.
Cost to Build Embedded Software
It’s challenging to provide a precise estimate without knowing the specific details of your project. However, as a general guideline, the cost of developing an embedded software can range from USD 30,000 to USD 1,25,000.
Since the cost of developing embedded software can vary significantly depending on several factors, there are some key considerations to keep in mind:
- Hidden costs for hardware procurement, testing, and ongoing maintenance.
- Evaluate the revenue and potential benefits of the embedded software to justify the development costs.
- Consider the long-term needs of your project and ensure the software is scalable to accommodate future growth.
Once you have considered the above, the following aspects will affect your overall software development cost:
- Development time and resources: Intricate features, such as advanced algorithms or real-time processing, will likely increase the cost.
- The type and specifications of the hardware platform: Processors, memory, and peripherals influence the development effort and costs. Specialized hardware may require additional expertise and tools.
- Regulatory Compliance: Embedded systems, especially those used in critical applications like medical devices or automotive systems, can increase development time and cost.
- Development Team: Hiring skilled software developers from a custom software development company can be more expensive but may also lead to faster development and better quality.
- Project Scope: The scope of the project, including the number of features, functionalities, and platforms to be supported, will directly affect the development time and cost.
- Location: Geographic location can influence development costs due to differences in labor rates and infrastructure.
- Time-to-Market: If the project’s deadline is tight, it may require additional resources and potentially increase costs.
Conclusion
Embedded systems have become an integral part of our daily lives, powering countless devices and technologies. Without them, the world would look vastly different.
Understanding the significance of embedded systems and their widespread applications can help you better appreciate the tech world around you and leverage the benefits.
At Moon Technolabs, we’re at the forefront of embedded systems development and offer comprehensive solutions for wireless application development. Contact us to access our standard development approach and hardware and software expertise.
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