Embedded systems classifications

Based on the performance and functional requirements, embedded systems are classified into four categories.

1. Stand alone embedded systems : These do not require a host system, works by itself.
2. Real Time embedded systems : These give required output in a particular real time.
3. Networked embedded systems : These are related to a network to access the resources like as LAN, WAN or the internet.
4. Mobile embedded systems : These are highly preferable in portable embedded devices like cell phones, mobiles, digital cameras etc.

Mobile embedded systems have 3 classifications.

• Small scale embedded systems : These are designed with a 8 bit or 16 bit microcontroller, have tiny scale hardware, software complexities and involve board level design.
• Medium scale embedded systems :  These are designed with a single or few 16 bit or 32 bit microcontrollers or Digital Signal Processor (DSPs) or Reduced Instruction Set Computers (RISCs). These systems have both hardware and software complexities.
• Sophisticated Scale embedded systems : These have massive hardware and software complexities and may require ASIPs, IPs, and PLAs scalable or configurable with programmable logic arrays.