Multi-purpose Embedded System

Architecture

Hardware

• MCU
  • MCU can be 8-bit/16-bit/32-bit
  • MCU should have sufficient RAM (i.e. no external RAM required)
  • MCU should have program Flash (i.e. no external program flash required)
• Data Memory
  • Use serial bus (I2C/SPI) to expand data memory to save I/O pins
  • Need a file system to access the data
  • EEPROM has a higher endurance (typically 10,000 cycles) for saving frequently write data
  • Flash has a lower endurance (typically < 10,000 cycles) for saving less frequently write data (may not be true, to be confirmed)
• Communication
  • RS232 for short distance one-to-one communication with PC
  • RS485 for longer distance networked communication
  • USB for USB communication with PC
  • Ethernet for Internet connectivity
  • GPIB for automated test equipment
• User Interface
  • Graphical displays (LCD, VFD, etc.)
  • Keypad for input
• Sensory Control
  • ADC for analog feedback signals
  • DAC for analog control signals
  • GPIO for digital feedback and control signals