An embedded system is a specialized computer system—a combination of a
computer processor, computer memory, and input/output peripheral devices—that
has a dedicated function within a larger mechanical or electronic system. It
is embedded as part of a complete device often including electrical or
electronic hardware and mechanical parts. Because an embedded system typically
controls physical operations of the machine that it is embedded within, it
often has real-time computing constraints. Embedded systems control many
devices in common use. In 2009, it was estimated that ninety-eight percent of
all microprocessors manufactured were used in embedded systems.
Modern embedded systems are often based on microcontrollers (i.e.