The basic principles of operation and the underlying architectures are fundamentally the same.īoth have a processor, memory, and often several forms of input and output. This is applicable to both embedded and desktop computers, because the primary difference between an embedded machine and a general-purpose computer is its application.
In this chapter, we’ll look at computer architecture in general. In fact, he may have 30 or more, hidden inside his TVs, VCRs, DVD players, remote controls, washing machines, cell phones, air conditioners, game consoles, ovens, toys, and a host of other devices.
Ask the average person how many computers he has in his home, and he might reply that he has one or two. Embedded computers are far more numerous than desktop systems, but far less obvious. The second type of computer is the embedded computer, a computer that is integrated into another system for the purposes of control and/or monitoring. When you say “computer” to someone, this is the machine that usually comes to her mind. The first, and most obvious, is that of the desktop computer. Designing a computer, therefore, is about designing a machine that holds and manipulates data.Ĭomputer systems fall into essentially two separate categories. Inside that box is the electronics that runs your software, stores your information, and connects you to the world. It’s that box that sits on your desk, quietly purring away (or rattling if the fan is shot), running your programs and regularly crashing (if you’re not running some variety of Unix). This book is about designing and building specialized computers. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance