Embedded Software Development: Industries, Importance, and Timelines.
As mentioned previously, there are no fixed timelines within embedded software development. The actual timeline of your project may vary due to one or more of these factors.
All technology nowadays relies heavily on embedded software development to create intelligent systems using physically manufactured devices. It provides intelligence and the ability to utilize all types of hardware, from consumer goods to the very large, complex systems used in industrial machinery.
This article provides insight into the industries that use embedded systems, why embedded software development is essential for developing them, and the average Time required to develop embedded Software. To look for more information from veterans click here.
What Industries Have Embedded Software Development?
Numerous industries use embedded software development to deliver dedicated, reliable, and often real-time performance for hardware devices on behalf of a Hardware Manufacturer. The automotive industry is one of the largest sectors that utilizes embedded Software to provide engine management, braking, infotainment, airbag, and advanced driver assistance systems, among others. As the number of connected vehicles increases, the amount of embedded Software has become an integral part of their performance and safety. It is responsible for helping people keep the back and/or front of their car from breaking down.
The healthcare industry is the second-largest industry that heavily exhibits embedded systems. As perfection and safety are always key in this area, embedded software development remains a key component to providing patients the highest quality healthcare possible.
Embedded Software can be found in many consumer electronic products, including Smartphones, Smart TVs, Home Appliances, and Smart Home Devices.
These Systems increase Productivity, enable real-time process monitoring, and reduce the risk of Human Error through automation.
Many other industries use Embedded Software, including Telecommunications, Aerospace, Defence, Energy, and Agriculture. From Communication Infrastructure, Flight Control Systems, Smart Grids and Precision Farming Equipment, Embedded Systems form the foundation of the majority of Innovative Solutions in the Industrial Sector today.
Why Is Embedded Software Development Important?
Embedded Software is a critical component of hardware intelligence; without it, hardware components are limited by what they can do and how they interact with their environment. It is through Embedded Software that hardware can accept input, process input, determine what it must do to achieve this purpose, and execute those functions.
When creating an embedded software application, many considerations go into determining an appropriate timeline. Some of these will include:
1. The Complexity of the Project – The more complex your project, the longer it will take to complete its Development. Embedded Software undergoes design, development, and testing. In general terms, the design phase can be completed in two to four weeks, the development phase in two to six months, and the testing phase in approximately five to eight weeks.
2. Hardware Requirements and Specifications/Standards – Some hardware devices can use existing hardware standards and specifications (such as USB) while others cannot (such as devices that need custom-built connectors). As a result, developers must account for any deviations from normal hardware standards when designing embedded Software to ensure compatibility with the hardware.
3. Regulatory Constraints and Requirements - Many industries impose regulations regarding embedded software development. Regulatory agencies (such as the FDA and UL) can require extensive testing and verification before allowing embedded software applications to be used regularly or sold commercially.
4. End User Testing Needs - Since embedded Software will regularly interact with end users, comprehensive testing before launch is necessary. Comprehensive testing can add weeks or more to the overall timeline.
How long does embedded software development take?
As mentioned previously, there are no fixed timelines within embedded software development. The actual timeline of your project may vary due to one or more of these factors. In general, embedded software development follows structured phases (design, Development, and testing) and typically requires significant time allocation for these stages.
Development time for embedded systems is broken down into categories. For instance, Development for basic controllers and devices with a single function or operation takes about 4 weeks to 6 months. These types of projects usually have limited functionality, low user interaction, and fewer hardware dependencies.
Consumer electronics and industrial monitoring systems usually fall into the moderate-complexity category. They typically require 3 to 6 months to develop and create. Projects like these often require creating device drivers, establishing a communication protocol, developing a user interface, and possibly integrating with other software platforms. Highly complex projects or Safety Critical systems will take a minimum of 6 months; in some cases, they may take more than a year. Some examples of these projects include