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Create a system whereby the micro:bit could trigger a song to play or a light to turn on if the classroom gets too noisy (over a certain decibal). This could let the students know they are too noisy.

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Create a System that sets a reminder to drink water or possibly create a shake sensor attached to your bottle.

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Stable Heater - A system that turns on a heater in a stable when the temperature drops to a certain degrees/ Alerts the owner that it is a certain temperature.

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Deciding on the programming language for an embedded system may be the most important building decision you make. I've built thousands of embedded systems, using a range of languages. Here's my advice on using and picking languages, and tips from other development experts.

In this article:

What is an embedded programming language?

An embedded programming language is a programming language that developers use in embedded systems. In general, the languages offer low-level access to the device hardware. Developers use several common programming languages for embedded systems.

Some people also call these embedded coding languages. But programming involves much more than coding.

What programming languages are used in embedded systems?

Developers use a variety of programming languages in embedded systems. The most used languages include C, C++, Python, MicroPython, and Java.

Popular programming languages for embedded systems

Programming languages that developers frequently use in embedded systems have some key advantages. Most languages also have drawbacks. Here are the advantages and limitations of popular embedded programming languages.
C

The basics: Developed in the early 1970s, C is a compiled language that serves as a building block of many other languages.

Pros: C is an efficient and widely used programming language. Industry estimates say 80% of embedded systems use the C programming language.

Cons: Requires developers to understand and use technical coding techniques that can be complicated.

C++

The basics: This compiled language has most or all elements of C, but also other capabilities. The language was designed in part for system programming and embedded systems.

Pros: C++ can be as efficient as using C, but it has a standards library that can save programmers time in writing code.

Cons: A complex language that can be difficult to learn.

Expert commentary: "If you look at C++, it has so many capabilities. But there are capabilities in the language that if you don't use a subset of it, you can really destroy performance in an embedded system. So, there's that need to recognize that," explains Jacob Beningo, Embedded Software Consultant and President of Beningo Embedded Group. "You have all of these features, but it's only a true subset that you can use as an embedded developer. Other features can slow down your code, make it kind of bloated, and just not perform very well."

Python
MicroPython

The basics: This language is a version of Python optimized for microcontrollers.

Pros: MicroPython is also open source, free to use, and easy to learn.

Cons: The code isn't as fast and may use more memory compared to C or C++

Expert commentary: Beningo says the advantages of MicoPython include "all the libraries, the frameworks, the existing code, and the fact that everybody knows it. It's easy to learn. I've even heard of elementary school students writing Python code."

Java
JavaScript
Rust

The basics: In 2010, a Mozilla employee developed this high-level programming language designed for performance and safety.

Pros: Rust helps encourage secure code with fewer bugs.

Cons: Rust takes time to compile. The language isn't standardized or used much yet.

Expert commentary: "Rust is still very new. It will take more time until it really penetrates the embedded market on the system level. But its potential is clear, and it should be on every strategic watchlist," explains Maurice Kalinowski, Product Director for Qt.

Other languages for embedded systems

Developers also use other languages for embedded systems with specific needs. These languages are not common across all embedded systems but are popular in specific cases and perfect for some systems.
Ada

The basics: In the 1970s, Ada was created as a U.S. Department of Defense project due to its concern about the hundreds of programming languages in its embedded systems.

Pros: The language is extremely efficient and reliable.

Cons: Ada can be challenging to learn and isn't widely used.

Assembly
Go: Sometimes called Golang, Go is a programming language developed by Google that developers use in some embedded systems.

Comparison matrix for some of the top embedded programming languages
Download comparison matrix of top embedded software programming languages.
What is a hardware description language?

A couple of languages that some people may refer to as programming languages are actually "hardware description languages," or HDLs. The two primary HDLs are Verilog and VHDL.

HDLs allow engineers to simulate an electronic circuit while the simulation remains independent of that circuit. Engineers use HDLs for design, testing, and debugging of systems and doing timing analysis of systems.

Comparison of 6 top embedded software programming languages

Qt's Embedded Product Planning and Requirements Guide feature details and a comparison chart on the top five embedded programming languages. The chart compares key traits of the programming languages.

C

C++

Java

Python / MicroPython

JavaScript/
HTML5/CSS

Rust

Strenghts

Embedded, bare-metal,
IoT

Embedded, bare-metal,
standalone
apps, IoT

Web, cloud

Cloud, data science

Web

Embedded,
bare-metal

Expressive power

★

★★★★

★★

★★★★★

★★★

★★★★

Developer community

★★★

★★★

★/★★★★²

★★★★

★★★★★

★★

★ is the lowest ranking while ★★★★★ is the highest.
1 Provides high level of connectivity and networking support when platform libraries included
2 Java Developer community exclusive of Android (low) and inclusive of Android (high)

How to pick the right language for your embedded project

When selecting a programming language for an embedded system, experts say you must understand the strengths and weaknesses of each language. It's equally important to know the limitations and goals of your system.

For many embedded systems, C or C++ will be the best choices. In part, that's because they are "compiled" languages and extremely efficient. In compiled languages, the machine (or embedded device) directly translates the code, which means the language is fast and stable.

Devices that have minimal memory or power will often require that efficiency. So, programmers often use C or C++ in those devices. C or C++ are frequently used in microcontrollers and in embedded devices that use real operating systems. Those systems also demand the speed and efficiency that C and C++ provide. You'll also find C and C++ in several other embedded systems. Some experts estimate that about 80% of all embedded systems use the C programming language.

But your embedded system might also work just as well, or better, with an "interpreted" programming language. With an interpreted language, the embedded device does not directly translate the code. Instead, another interpreter program running on top of the device executes the code. For some embedded systems, the advantages of interpreted languages will be critical. Unlike compiled languages, interpreted languages are easily portable from one OS to another. They are also much easier for programmers to learn, read and write.

Python and JavaScript are examples of interpreted programming languages. Since interpreted languages require extra processing, they often operate more slowly than compiled languages - though their speed is improving. If your embedded device uses machine learning, Python and MicroPython have significant advantages.

Ada is a programming language you may want to use if your device requires extraordinary security and stability (as in medical devices or aviation or military equipment).

Experts also state that you must realize the capabilities and experience of your programming team. "I always tell people to look at the skill set of their engineers," adds Beningo. "I try to push a lot of people to use C+ now if they can. But for engineers that know C well, the transition to C++ can sometimes be difficult. So, it's really looking at the experience and the skill sets of the team that helps dictate that." (Learn more about skills that embedded engineers need.)

And Burkhard Stubert, an independent software developer and consultant specializing in embedded systems, explains that companies often don't have much choice in the programming language they use. The existing system or related systems may be using a programming language that means they'll need to use a specific language.

"Normally, you don't pick the language, but the language picks you," Stubert shares. "With embedded systems, this is typically C, C++, or Python. Then, you go from there."

Finding the language that works best for your embedded system

Every embedded programming language has its pros and cons. Some languages work better than others with graphical user interfaces. Just as you spend time researching the language you want to use, you'll also want to consider the GUI when you pick the language. For example, if your system uses GUIs, you likely will want to use an interpreted language like JavaScript.

Create your embedded system using your favorite programming language with Qt

Sometimes, there is a clear-cut way to tell which language best suits the needs of your embedded project. Quite often, the choice comes down to what the developers are proficient with and personal preferences. Qt aims to give you the freedom to create software in the programming language you like best. The Qt Company supports C++, QML (Qt's easy-to-use declarative language), and Python, while even more languages like Rust and Go are backed by the community.

Learn more about designing your system's user interfaces with Qt QML and how to use other Qt products to build the best embedded system in a range of languages.

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Embedded Software Programming Languages: Pros, Cons, and Comparisons of Popular Languages

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Deciding on the programming language for an embedded system may be the most important building decision you make. I've built thousands of embedded systems, using a range of languages. Here's my advice on using and picking languages, and tips from other development experts.

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Dog Toilet Sensor - A sensor that either makes a noise or lights up in another room when the dog is at the back door - this could stop the dog scratching your lovely doors!!

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Difference between digital and anologue signals.

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Difference between digital and anologue signals.

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Difference between Analog and Digital Signals | AddOhms #6

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Analogue versus digital

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Analog vs. digital signals | Waves | Middle school physics | Khan Academy

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Information can be stored and transmitted using an analog or digital signal. Depending the type of signal used interference can prevent the information from ...

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Bob Blumenscheid, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Digi International
June 04, 2021

Get Our White PaperCompare chip-down vs. modular designsDOWNLOAD PDF

Embedded systems are at the heart of many different products, machines and intelligent operations, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence applications. As embedded systems applications appear in every industry and sector today, embedded devices and software play a crucial role in the functioning of cars, home appliances, medical devices, interactive kiosks, and other equipment we use in our daily lives. In this article, we have provided embedded system examples with explanations to help you learn how this technology is impacting every facet of modern life.

While real life embedded systems have become a significant part of our lives, they are engineered to operate with minimal human intervention. Characteristics like compact size, simple design, and low cost make them a useful technology in industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and even smart cities. Thus, they are one of the driving forces behind today's digital, connected, and automated world. Here you will find the types and characteristics of embedded systems along with some real-life examples of devices running embedded software.

4 Types of Embedded Devices

Common embedded systems can be broken into four types based on performance as well as functional requirements:

Real-Time

Real-time embedded systems are designed and installed to carry out specific tasks within a pre-defined time limit. They are further divided into two different types:

Soft Real-Time Embedded Systems: For these systems, the completion of the task is of paramount importance, while the deadline is not a priority.

Hard Real-Time Embedded Systems: These systems prioritize deadlines, so they shouldn't be missed in any case.

Some of the real-time embedded systems examples are:

Sound System of a computer (Soft real-time system)

Aircraft control system (Hard real-time system)

Stand-alone

These are self-sufficient systems that do not rely on a host system like a processor or a computer to perform tasks. Here are some standalone embedded technology examples:

Networked

These systems are connected to a wired or wireless network to perform assigned tasks and provide output to the connected devices. They are comprised of components like controllers and sensors. Here are some network embedded software examples:

Mobile

These systems are smaller in size and easy to use. Though they come with limited memory, people still prefer them due to their portability and handiness. Here are a few mobile embedded control systems examples:

Digital cameras

Mobile phones

Smart watch

Fitness tracker

Characteristics of Embedded Computer Systems

The main characteristics of typical embedded systems include:

1. Small Form Factor (SFF): These are PCB designs packed with robust processing power in smaller rugged enclosures, which maximizes space efficiency.

2. Power Efficient Components: These are processors with lower thermal design power that minimize cooling and eradicate the need for fans as well as moving components.

3. Single-Functioned: These systems are designed to perform a specific operation during their lifetime.

4. Lower Cost: Since they don't feature expansion slots for peripherals, embedded systems are generally lower cost than full-featured computers and have fewer component complexities.

If you are not familiar with embedded systems terminologyor concepts and want to know more, we have many resources available. See the Related Content at the bottom of this page, as well as our Resources, Solutions pages and Videos.

10 Embedded Systems Examples

There are many things with embedded systems incorporated in the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as in machine to machine (M2M) devices. Exceptionally versatile and adaptable, embedded systems can be found in all smart devices today. It is difficult to find a single portion of modern life that doesn't involve this technology. Here are some of the real-life examples of embedded system applications.

Central heating systems

GPS systems

Fitness trackers

Medical devices

Automotive systems

Transit and fare collection

ATMs

Factory robots

Electric vehicle charging stations

Interactive kiosks

1. Central Heating Systems

Central heating systems convert the chemical energy into thermal energy in a furnace room and transfer that energy into heat, which is then delivered to numerous spaces within a building. It is important for these systems to have thermostat controls to adjust the temperature, which is achieved by an embedded system.

If a central heating system isn't provided with temperature controls, it can lead to overheating one room while leaving another room cold. The right thermostat controls will allow you to adjust the temperature to a comfortable level and save energy extensively.

Embedded system examples in central heating can be found in a range of structures that require temperature control, both for comfort and for management of temperature-sensitive goods.

Examples include:

2. GPS Systems

The GPS is a navigation system that uses satellites and receivers to synchronize data related to location, time, and velocity. The receiver or device that receives the data has an integrated embedded system to facilitate the application of a global positioning system. The embedded GPS devices allow people to find their current locations and destinations easily. Thus, they are gaining rapid momentum and becoming the most widely used navigation tools for automobiles.

Nowadays, GPS systems are generally used in:

3. Fitness Trackers

Fitness trackers are wearable devices that can monitor your health and track activities like sleeping, running, and walking. These devices use embedded systems to garner data related to your heart rate, body temperature, and the number of footsteps, which is further sent to servers via WAN like LTE or GPRS.

Fitness trackers are generally used for:

4. Medical Devices

Medical devices in healthcare facilities have been incorporating embedded systems for quite some time. A new class of medical devices use embedded systems to help treat patients who need frequent monitoring and constant attention at home. These systems are embedded with sensors to gather data related to patients' health like heart rate, pulse rate, or readings from implants, which are sent to a cloud where a doctor can review patient data on their device wirelessly. Medical devices have been widely used for diagnosing and treating patients efficiently, and some of their examples are:

5. Automotive Systems

Automotive embedded systems are designed and installed to enhance the safety of automobiles. Thanks to the safety systems in vehicles, the traffic fatality rate has plummeted in recent years. Automobile industries are going the extra mile to reinforce automobiles with advanced technology systems and sensors, which is not possible without embedded systems.

Some key examples of an active safety system include adaptive speed control, car breakdown warning, pedestrian recognition, merging assistance, airbags, and more. These are a few features anticipated to mitigate the risk of accidents and foster the demand for embedded systems across the globe.

Some more examples of automotive embedded systems include:

6. Transit and Fare Collection

Automated Fare Collection (AFC) is a ticketing system that allows passengers to pay the fare through ticket vending machines or online services. These systems were originated with coins and tokens but have been replaced with magnetic stripe cards or smart cards. An AFC is a basic station device comprising a ticket vending machine, automatic gate machine, and ticket checking machine. These components are embedded systems that ensure faster transactions, seamless operations, and more efficient payment collection.

While city transit bus and commuter rails still use paper tickets and passes, urban transit systems have adopted AFC with smart cards, which are inexpensive technologies and offer additional security along with data collection options.

Automated fare collection systems are generally found at:

If you are looking for embedded processor examples in the transportation sector, see some of our customer stories, sharing how Digi embedded System-on-Modules are designed into transit and vehicle applications:

7. ATMs

An automated teller machine (ATM) is a computerized machine used in banking that communicates with a host bank computer over a network. The bank computer verifies all the data entered by the users and stores all transactions, while the embedded system in the ATM displays the transaction data and processes inputs from the ATM keyboard.

An ATM is mostly used to:

8. Factory Robots

Factory robots are designed to perform high-precision tasks under dangerous work conditions. They have an integrated embedded system to connect different subsystems. In a typical mechanical job, robots employ actuators, sensors, and software to perceive the environment and derive intended output safely.

Without an embedded system, robots would have to rely on external control or computing systems. This, in turn, can elevate the safety risks due to delay or failure in the connection link between the factory robot and its external computing system. Today, as Industry 4.0 comes to fruition, these systems are integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning to make equipment smarter, safer and more effective - for example, enabling machines to identify defects that the human eye wouldn't see, and remove these from production.

Factory robots have a range of applications:

9. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Electric vehicle charging stations are equipped with charging points or units that supply electric power to charge connected vehicles. An embedded system resides in the charging station to provide processing for graphics displays, report any issues with the device and alert technicians when maintenance is required. This embedded solution provides an easy and cost-effective approach to monitoring and maintaining the charging infrastructure. A number of Digi customers, such as AddÉnergie, are developing solutions to serve this growing market.

Some of the common uses of electric vehicle charging stations include:

10. Interactive Kiosks

Self-service kiosks are designed to offer services and information to end-users in environments where human employee presence isn't possible or cost-effective. For instance, these machines and terminals allow a passenger in an empty airport to buy a meal at 4 am without interacting with human workers.Interactive kiosks come in all shapes and sizes, from simple coffee dispensing systems to complex vending machines and fuel stations with high-definition graphics. For this reason, it is important for embedded developers to work with a scalable product line like Digi ConnectCore® 8X/8M system-on-modules (SOMs), which support development of product lines with scaling levels of functionality.

An embedded system provides the processing for connected, self-service kiosk machines, offering an interactive consumer experience. These systems can be developed to function in remote and outdoor environments and deliver information and services even in extreme weather conditions. They can also eliminate downtime for real-time applications and have expandable I/O options designed for workload consolidation.

Apart from airports, interactive kiosk machines are mostly found in:

Retail sites and convenience stores

Hospitals

Movie theaters

Government buildings

The Importance of Embedded Systems

People often question the importance of embedded systems in daily life. These small computers are integrated into various systems for performing specific image and data processing tasks, and thus significantly impact the way we commute, spend our leisure time, run business, and perform various other daily activities.

Still wondering where can you find embedded systems? Whether you work in a restaurant, office, health practice, factory or other environment, your workplace is full of systems that are built with embedded devices, like elevators, printers, routers and point of sale systems.In brief, they can be found everywhere in our society - from vehicles and EV charging stations to vending machines, lottery ticket systems and digital signage to sophisticated medical equipment.

Here are some of the reasons why embedded systems are becoming prevalent across the globe:

Additionally, embedded modules are becoming more sophisticated and powerful all the time, and are increasing in graphics performance and edge compute capabilities, giving embedded developers the tools to bring high-performance market-driven products to market.

Find Your Embedded Systems Solutions with Digi

The significance of embedded systems is so much that the world without them would look considerably different than it does today. Thanks to the continuous tech advancements, they will become more crucial for every device in the foreseeable future. Understanding why we use embedded systems and a plethora of examples where they are installed will make you better equipped to perceive the tech world around you and leverage the benefits of this exciting technology.

At Digi, we've taken embedded systems and development tools to the next level. Our embedded systems are complete solutions for wireless application development, with developer tools and built-in security. Learn more about our embedded systems solutionsand contact us to start a conversation.

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10 Real Life Examples of Embedded Systems (2022)

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Bob Blumenscheid, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Digi International June 04, 2021 Get Our White PaperCompare chip-down vs. modular designsDOWNLOAD PDF Embedded systems are at the heart of many different products, machines and intelligent operations, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.

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A combination of a computer hardware and software designed for a specific function.