Newark’s head of solutions development, Cliff Ortmeyer, introduces readers to embedded systems, the tiny, specialized computers hidden inside everyday products

How embedded systems are evolving to deliver more for less 

 

Embedded processors and modules are tiny devices capable of controlling large, rugged industrial systems. Technology once only found in PCs or servers now fits into compact devices that can be used everywhere. Manufacturers have access to advanced graphics, AI acceleration and fast communication, to drive smart cameras, robots and even medical instruments. 

 

Embedded systems rely on these processors, but also on storage technology, such as memory cards and miniature solidstate drives. These devices must be able to survive harsh conditions and constant use in equipment like factory controllers or wearable devices, where failure would be costly or dangerous. 

 

Because embedded systems often run on batteries or must operate for years without maintenance, power management is another big focus. Energy harvesting is an important area of development, replacing or supplementing batteries by capturing energy from light, vibration or heat. Successful efforts here could lead to sensors that power themselves from their environment, reducing the need for battery changes in remote or hard-to-reach locations. 

 

At the other end of the scale sit components and power supply designs handling high currents and voltages safely. These embedded systems target things like electric vehicles and industrial equipment. 

 

As more devices connect to networks and run AI, protecting them from cyberattacks has become a central concern. New regulations like the EU Cyber Resilience Act are aimed at ensuring embedded systems cannot be easily compromised. Manufacturers are being pushed to build-in security, not bolt it on later. 

 

On the software side, there is a trend toward making embedded systems easier to program, update and interact with. Smarter human-machine interfaces (HMIs) show a push to make systems both dependable and more intuitive to use. Instead of obscure displays and cryptic buttons, newer devices aim for clear, responsive interfaces that feel closer to modern apps and smartphones. 

 

There is also growing emphasis on building trust in the way these systems behave. Users need to know they can rely on them in safetycritical areas like healthcare and industrial control. That includes everything from predictable timing in the software to transparent behavior when something goes wrong, helping operators diagnose problems quickly rather than treating the system as a mysterious black box. 

 

Processors are becoming more integrated, with more resources to perform more tasks at the same time. A lot of the effort is going into adding artificial intelligence. Innovative approaches include creating computer chips that act more like organic brains.  

 

These neuromorphic devices can do more with less power, so will have a big impact on embedded systems. This shows that embedded systems are changing from basic control devices into mini data centers, able to make their own decisions.  

 

Memory manufacturers are looking at increasing ruggedness rather than capacity. The need is coming from industrial applications, but also devices that are carried or worn, often in harsh environments. This shows that memory for embedded systems is becoming more specialized, while being tough and reliable.  

 

As well as energy harvesting, power supplies are becoming smarter as manufacturers lean into renewable energy and battery management for storage systems. The safety aspect of batteries is apparent, but our reliance on them is also growing.  

 

Power supplies for embedded systems are evolving so devices can run longer, safer and with less maintenance. That may come from intelligent energy harvesting, or smarter DC power supplies.  

 

It’s clear that embedded systems are spreading into more areas, from cars to factories, healthcare, wearables and beyond. But at the same time the level of technology employed is becoming less visible to the people using them.  

 

The real impact of innovation is making the hidden computers we now depend on even smarter by adding AI, making them better connected through IoT running over wireless connections and increasing their efficiency as they demand more power.  

 

All this innovation can only happen if we make these systems more secure, protecting them (and us) against cyber threats. Everyday products will quietly gain new capabilities, work together more smoothly and increasingly ‘just work’ in the background of daily life. 

 

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