Embedded Systems
Embedded System
A computerised system designed to perform a specific set of tasks within a larger device, often with real-time control and limited user interaction.
- Embedded systems are often resource-constrained, meaning they have limited processing power, memory, and energy. This makes efficient communication protocols essential.
- They are integral to modern technology, from smartphones to industrial machinery.
Why Communication Matters
- Interconnectivity: Embedded systems often need to exchange data with other devices or systems.
- Functionality: Communication enables features like remote monitoring, control, and data sharing.
- Efficiency: Choosing the right protocol ensures reliable and efficient communication.
Key Communication Protocols
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
A wireless communication technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed internet and network connectivity without physical cables.
- Range: Medium to long (20–50m indoors, more outdoors)
- Speed: High (up to 1 Gbps with newer standards)
- Power Usage: High
- Use Cases: Streaming, file transfer, smart home devices, laptops
- Pros: Fast, widely supported, secure
- Cons: High power use, may interfere with other devices
A smart refrigerator uses Wi-Fi to send inventory data to a mobile app, allowing users to track food supplies remotely.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth
A wireless communication standard for short-range data exchange between electronic devices, such as phones, speakers, and computers.
- Range: Short (typically up to 10m)
- Speed: Moderate (up to 2 Mbps with Bluetooth 5)
- Power Usage: Low
- Use Cases: Wireless headphones, wearables, smart locks
- Pros: Low power, easy pairing
- Cons: Limited range and data rate
Think of Bluetooth as a walkie-talkie for devices which are short-ranged, low-powered, and designed for direct communication.
5G
5G
The fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and greater connectivity than previous generations.
- Range: Wide (via cell towers)
- Speed: Very high (1–10 Gbps)
- Power Usage: Moderate to high
- Use Cases: Smart cities, autonomous vehicles, mobile IoT
- Pros: Ultra-fast, low latency, wide coverage
- Cons: Requires infrastructure, higher energy than Bluetooth
While 5G offers impressive capabilities, it requires significant infrastructure and may not be available in all areas.
- Wi-Fi is ideal for high-speed, local networks.
- Bluetooth excels in low-power, short-range applications.
- 5G is best for real-time, wide-area communication.
