The most visible use of computers and software is processing information for human consumption. We use them to write books (like this one), search for information on the web, communicate via email, and keep track of financial data. The vast majority of computers in use, however, are less visible. They run the engine, brakes, seatbelts, airbag, and audio system of the car. They digitally encode your voice and construct your microwave oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher. They run printers ranging from your desktop inkjet printers to large industrial high-volume printers. They command robots on a factory floor, power generation in a power plant, processes in a chemical plant, and traffic lights in a city. They search for microes in biological samples, construct images of the inside of a human body, and measure vital signs. They process radio signals from space look for supernovae and for extraterrestrial intelligence. They brings toys to life, enabling them to react to human touch and to sounds. They control aircraft and trains. These less visible computers are called Embedded Systems, and the software they run is called Embedded Software.
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