embedded system

[/ɪmˈbɛdɪd ˈsɪstəm/]
nounpl: embedded systems
sistema embarcado
1. A specialized computing system designed to perform specific functions within a larger mechanical or electrical system, with dedicated hardware and software
The microcontroller in a washing machine is an embedded system that controls the wash cycles.
O microcontrolador em uma máquina de lavar é um sistema embarcado que controla os ciclos de lavagem.
2. A computer system that is built into a device and is not designed to be a general-purpose computer
Modern cars contain multiple embedded systems for engine control, braking, and entertainment.
Carros modernos contêm múltiplos sistemas embarcados para controle do motor, frenagem e entretenimento.
3. A combination of computer hardware and software designed to perform a fixed set of functions
The embedded system in a smartwatch manages battery power, sensor data, and display updates.
O sistema embarcado em um smartwatch gerencia energia da bateria, dados de sensores e atualizações de exibição.
The term 'embedded system' is fundamental in Brazilian tech culture and education, particularly in engineering schools and the growing IoT industry. Brazil has significant tech development in automotive and industrial automation sectors that heavily rely on embedded systems. The term is used interchangeably with 'sistema embarcado' in professional and academic contexts, though 'embarcado' (literally 'boarded' or 'shipped') reflects the idea of systems built into devices.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
embedded computerdedicated systemreal-time systemmicrocontroller-based system
Antonyms / Antônimos
general-purpose computerdesktop computermainframe

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sistema embarcado
Standard term used in technology and engineering contexts
São Paulo
sistema embarcado
Commonly used in tech hubs and educational institutions
Portugal
sistema embebido
Portuguese variation; 'embarcado' also understood but 'embebido' is more common in European Portuguese
USA/International
embedded system
Standard English term widely used in technology industry globally

Related Words

firmwaremicrocontrollerreal-time operating systemIoT devicemicroprocessorhardwaresoftware integration

Related Idioms & Phrases

embedded in the hardware
embedded solution
embedded intelligence
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