Embedded Systems

Exam code: 2210

Written by: Ashika|Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll|Updated 2 July 2026

An embedded system is a computer system which is used to perform a dedicated function, inside a larger mechanical unit
Examples of embedded systems include
- Heating thermostats
- Hospital equipment
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Coffee machines
- Satellite navigation systems
- Factory equipment
- Security systems
- Traffic lights

Worked example

1) Tick two boxes below to show which are an example of an embedded system

[2]

	Is it an example of an embedded system
Laptop
Washing Machine
Mobile Phone
Car Engine Management System

2) Justify your choice to question 1

[2]

Answers

1) Tick two boxes below to show which are an example of an embedded system. [2]

	Is it an example of an embedded system
Laptop
Washing Machine	✓
Mobile Phone
Car Engine Management System	✓

2) Justify your choice to question 1 [2]

Any two of:

A washing machine and car engine management system are not general-purpose computers [1]
A washing machine and car engine management system have a single purpose and are both housed inside a larger mechanical unit [1]
A washing machine and car engine management system have a microprocessor [1]

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