I’m currently in the process of getting my A+ cert. What’s the difference between ICS and an embedded system?
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Generally, the ability to load and run software on it.
A bunch of 7400 series logic gate ICs don’t make an embedded system. A microcontrollers firmware is however is embedded programming.
Generally, the ability to load and run software on it.
A bunch of 7400 series logic gate ICs don’t make an embedded system. A microcontrollers firmware is however is embedded programming.
I love when reddit brings questions just for me 😉
“embedded” systems can be and device that is “embedded” into something to make it “smart”, a good example would be your basic thermostat, a microwave, a dishwasher.. theres code in there, it can run for decades without needing any management..
if you connect an “embedded” device to a network, now you have an “IoT” device, like any smart home assistant.
if you gather a few of those IoT devices together into a network where the work collectively manage some physical process (a system of systems), you have an industrial control system (ICS). ICS systems /tend/ to rely on “PLC”s (programmable logic controller) as their hands – IoT devices with relay outputs and sensor inputs – to take physical actions in the real world.
be careful using the terms “SCADA”, “ICS” and “DCS” interchangeably when working with control system engineers
good luck on your A+
I love when reddit brings questions just for me 😉
“embedded” systems can be and device that is “embedded” into something to make it “smart”, a good example would be your basic thermostat, a microwave, a dishwasher.. theres code in there, it can run for decades without needing any management..
if you connect an “embedded” device to a network, now you have an “IoT” device, like any smart home assistant.
if you gather a few of those IoT devices together into a network where the work collectively manage some physical process (a system of systems), you have an industrial control system (ICS). ICS systems /tend/ to rely on “PLC”s (programmable logic controller) as their hands – IoT devices with relay outputs and sensor inputs – to take physical actions in the real world.
be careful using the terms “SCADA”, “ICS” and “DCS” interchangeably when working with control system engineers
good luck on your A+
(TL;DR) IC’s or integrated circuits are simply a commonly used circuit like a timer, amplifier, or logic gate, built into a small package that can be readily installed in a larger circuit to save time, while embedded systems are essentially tiny programmable computers that can run code meant to be used as a component in a larger device.
The IC’s functions are pretty much fixed. While some can operate on different “modes” by connecting them in different ways (Think of 555 timer or opamp feedback modes) the internal workings of an IC do not change, so if you have an IC that doesn’t do what you need you’re out of luck.
Think of them like ordering a prefab part of a house instead of purchasing some 2×4’s and going into carpentry.
Embedded systems on the other hand are tiny, fully fledged, computers with processors, memory, ram, etc, built into a chip package that are intended to work as a component of a larger device. And they can be programmed to do what you need them to.
They quite commonly have multi purposes legs that can be used to read voltages from sensors or a button press, or as an output to send out a voltage when the program calls for it. Quite commonly they can be connected to data buses or networks too.
Think of the chip in the electronic coffee maker, microwave, or alarm clock, for example. Or the electronic engine controller if you have a modern car.
These items aren’t computers or meant to be used as computers, but they do have computers inside as a component, to make them work. Those are embedded systems.
(TL;DR) IC’s or integrated circuits are simply a commonly used circuit like a timer, amplifier, or logic gate, built into a small package that can be readily installed in a larger circuit to save time, while embedded systems are essentially tiny programmable computers that can run code meant to be used as a component in a larger device.
The IC’s functions are pretty much fixed. While some can operate on different “modes” by connecting them in different ways (Think of 555 timer or opamp feedback modes) the internal workings of an IC do not change, so if you have an IC that doesn’t do what you need you’re out of luck.
Think of them like ordering a prefab part of a house instead of purchasing some 2×4’s and going into carpentry.
Embedded systems on the other hand are tiny, fully fledged, computers with processors, memory, ram, etc, built into a chip package that are intended to work as a component of a larger device. And they can be programmed to do what you need them to.
They quite commonly have multi purposes legs that can be used to read voltages from sensors or a button press, or as an output to send out a voltage when the program calls for it. Quite commonly they can be connected to data buses or networks too.
Think of the chip in the electronic coffee maker, microwave, or alarm clock, for example. Or the electronic engine controller if you have a modern car.
These items aren’t computers or meant to be used as computers, but they do have computers inside as a component, to make them work. Those are embedded systems.
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