ABSTRACT
Embedded systems are computing platforms that are used inside a product whose main function is different than general-purpose computing. Cell phones and multipoint fuel injection systems in cars are examples of embedded systems. Embedded systems are characterized by application-specific and multidimensional design constraints. While decreasing time to market and the need for frequent upgrades are pushing embedded system designs toward programmable implementations, these stringent requirements demand that designs be highly customized. To customize embedded systems, standard design features of generalpurpose processors are often omitted, and several new features are introduced in embedded systems to meet all the design constraints simultaneously.
