ABSTRACT
Mechatronic systems contain elements of control and information processing which are typically performed by microprocessor systems. The prevalence of the microprocessor as opposed to any other form of control or processing is due to a range of factors, the most important of which are as follows: Stored programmed control, Digital processing, Speed of operation, Design flexibility, Integration, and Cost. The requirements of a typical mechatronic application can be met by a class of microprocessor system referred to as embedded real-time microprocessor systems. Embedded real-time microprocessor systems form one of the two major categories of microprocessor applications. Microprocessor performance is an important issue in all applications, embedded or otherwise. The microprocessor system consists of its central processing unit, program and data memory and a variety of input and output functions, all of which are interconnected by a microprocessor system bus.
