Embedded technology has changed the way we live and use our gadgets. An embedded system is a computer system designed to perform dedicated functions. Embedded systems are the norm rather than the exception for almost all electronics devices. Embedded systems range from portable devices such as digital watches and MP3 players. Household appliances like the microwave ovens and washing machines are including embedded systems to add advanced functionality.
Embedded control systems and in particular microcontrollers are used in virtually every electronic system. Lots of consumer electronics have embedded CPU and thus became embedded systems. For example, PDAs, cellphones, point-of-sale devices, VCRs, industrial robot control, or even your toasters can be embedded system. There is more and more demand on the embedded system market.
Some report expects that the demand on embedded CPUs is 10 times as large as general purpose PC CPUs.