Synonyms
Embedded processor; Embedded software
Definition
Embedded systems [1, 2] are computer systems that are embedded in various parts of equipment to control them. There is also another definition: embedded systems are integrated systems that are combined with equipment. Examples of equipment to which embedded technologies are applied include electrical household appliances and electrical equipment, PC peripheral equipment, office automation equipment, communications equipment, network facilities, medical equipment, and robots. Embedded systems are rapidly spreading wide to include social life, but there are some problems. The greatest challenge is to keep or improve the quality of design and reliability as the systems get large and complex. Biometric authentication functions have been already embedded in smart cards and cellular phones. Embedded authentication functions are applied to the driving system and personal comfort equipment at home; system security and usability are...