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Explain All 5 Types of Embedded Systems Protocols in Detail

Explain All 5 Types of Embedded Systems Protocols in Detail

By Upskill Campus
Published Date:   2nd May, 2024 Uploaded By:    Shriyansh Tiwari
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Embedded systems are tiny computers that do specific jobs. They're in things like GPS devices and fitness trackers. To make sure these systems work right, the engineers who build them need to set up ways for them to talk to each other. There are different embedded system protocols. Each one is good for additional things. Knowing about these protocols helps engineers make savvy choices when they build embedded systems. 


Understanding Embedded System Protocols


Protocols in embedded systems quietly power up our daily gadgets and essential systems. They're like mini-computer brains tucked inside things we use daily, from simple appliances like microwaves and washing machines to complex machines in factories and even self-driving cars. In addition, these systems work smoothly with communication rules called protocols, which help them talk to each other and share information.

 


The core of an embedded system is its processing unit, which can be either a microcontroller or a microprocessor. Microcontrollers are small and compact, like all-in-one chips with a mini-computer, memory, and connections to other parts. Moreover, they're perfect for devices where space and energy efficiency matter a lot, like household appliances or small automation systems. On the other hand, microprocessors are more powerful and used in tasks needing lots of calculations. Plus, they need extra parts like memory and support chips, and you'll find them in things like advanced electronics or controlling big machines in industries.

 

Understanding these basics helps us appreciate the magic behind everyday devices and the advanced systems that make our lives easier and more connected. It knows the secret language that lets all these gadgets and machines work together seamlessly, making our world savvier and more efficient.


Protocols Used in Embedded Systems


The following section will describe several types of embedded system protocols. But before moving further, it is necessary to know the communication protocol. However, it is synced with the embedded systems. 


What is Communication Protocol? 


Communication protocols are a set of rules that let different systems talk to each other through wires or signals. They are a secret code that helps gadgets share information. An embedded system is an advanced device that uses hardware and software to work. It takes input from sensors or buttons, processes it using software, and then gives an output. For this to happen smoothly, all the parts of the system need to speak the same language, which is where communication protocols come in.

 

Here, we will discuss several embedded system protocols. You just need to read and understand the entire concept. 


1. UART Protocol in Embedded System


UART, which stands for Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter, is one of the simplest and most commonly used ways for devices to talk to each other. Unlike many other protocols that use a clock signal to keep data in sync, UART uses a more straightforward method called asynchronous serial communication. In short, devices communicate through two wires without a clock signal guiding their conversation.

 

In UART communication, there are start and stop bits added to data to help devices recognize when a message begins and ends. As a result, it helps ensure that the data is received correctly. Also, both devices should agree on the baud rate, which is like the speed at which they exchange information. They have to match their speeds to avoid misunderstandings or errors in data transmission.

 

UART can work in three ways: simplex, half-duplex, and full-duplex. Simplex means data travels in one direction only. Half-duplex allows data to go both ways but not at the same time. Full-duplex is like talking on a phone where both parties can speak and listen simultaneously. However, it enables real-time communication in both directions.

 

Pros:

  • It only uses two wires to connect
  • Asynchronous means no clock signal is needed
  • Famous and commonly used embedded systems protocol
  • Easy structure means data packets can effortlessly change
  • Numerous ways are available there to configure

 

Cons:

  • The baud rate configuration should be similar
  • With one master and sensor, UART doesn’t support numerous systems


2. Serial Communication Protocols in Embedded System


Serial communication sends data bit by bit using binary pulses, where one represents a logic HIGH and zero represents a logic LOW. Depending on how data is transferred and who can talk when there are different types of serial communication. These types are classified into Simplex, Half Duplex, and Full Duplex modes.

 

In Simplex mode, only one side can talk at a time. If the sender sends data, the receiver can only listen and not respond. A typical example of Simplex communication is how television or radio broadcasts work—they transmit data without expecting immediate responses.

 

Half Duplex mode allows both sides to talk, but not simultaneously. If one side is transmitting, the other can receive but cannot send back until it's their turn. An example of Half Duplex is how we interact with the internet—we send requests for data and then receive the information from the server.

 

Full Duplex mode enables simultaneous communication in both directions. Both sides can talk and listen simultaneously, like having a phone call where both people can speak and hear each other. This mode is used in scenarios where real-time communication is needed, such as video calls or live chats.

 

Pros:

  • Cost less than other devices.
  • Have fewer wires.
  • Support long-distance communication between devices.

 

Cons:

  • Require data to be sent to be well organized.
  • Require device controllers to handle all data communications with embedded systems and peripherals. 


3. USART Protocol in Embedded System


The Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (USART) is quite similar to UART but has an extra feature called synchronous communication. In short, it can do everything UART does, like sending data in bits, but it can also switch to the synchronous mode when needed.

 

USART is a type of embedded system protocol and versatile tool that can handle different communication styles based on what's needed for the task. It's handy because it can be used in various application areas depending on what works best for the situation.

 

Pros:

  • The clock signal is not required
  • Uses parity bit for error detection
  • Cost-effective
  • It needs only two wires for data communication

 

Cons:

  • It does not support numerous master-slave functionality
  • The baud rate of communicating UART should be within 10 percent of each other.

4. Network Protocols in Embedded Systems


Network Protocol is a widespread way for devices to connect, from small networks like homes or offices (LAN) to ampler networks that span cities or even countries (WAN). As the Internet of Things (IoT) grows, It has become necessary in embedded systems, which are those smart devices with hardware and software working together. Over time, it has gotten better and faster through updates to its rules and technology.

 

In embedded systems, you often use network embedded system protocols by connecting special chips called Ethernet controllers to regular microcontrollers. These chips, like the WZ1500, help the devices talk to each other over Ethernet. Some advanced microcontrollers, like the STM32, even have built-in support for Ethernet, using protocols like MII or RMII to send and receive data over networks. 

 

Pros:

  • It provides high-speed data transmission for data in the network. 
  • Setting up a Network Protocol connection is inexpensive.

 

Cons:

  • Fixing problems with Network Protocol connections can be challenging.
  • Its networks work best for connecting devices over shorter distances.


5.  USB Protocol in Embedded System


USB stands for Universal Serial Bus, and it's a type of connection that lets devices talk to each other. It's widely used in the world of computer electronics and has become more popular than older protocols like UART. USB uses a protocol called Asynchronous Serial Protocol, which means it doesn't need a clock signal to work. As a result, it makes it cheaper to use. When one device sends information to another using USB, the data is broken into small packets and sent over.

 

USB is another type of embedded system protocols. It can handle different speeds depending on what it's used for, ranging from 1.5 megabits per second to a super-fast 10 gigabits per second. So, it's like a flexible and speedy way for devices to communicate with each other.

 

Pros: 

  • Can support high-capacity of data
  • Low cost, low power, and smaller in size
  • Plug and play means easy implementation

 

Cons:

  • Limited capability
  • Limited messages can be communicated between the peripheral and the host. 

Conclusion

Embedded system protocols are the secret code that makes modern devices talk to each other. Engineers need to know these protocols well to ensure data flows smoothly and devices work perfectly. By picking the suitable protocols and using them the right way, engineers can make cool gadgets that make life easier and more fun.

 


Frequently Asked Questions


Q1. What is SPI protocol in an embedded system?

Ans.SPI means Serial Peripheral Interface, and it's a way for devices to talk to each other over short distances. It was created by Motorola in the 1980s. Mainly for embedded protocol systems, and now it's a common way for devices to communicate.

Q2. What is bus protocol in an embedded system?

Ans.Bus protocols are like the agreed-upon rules for different parts of embedded systems to talk to each other. It is just like a road where data and signals travel between modules like sensors, memory, and microcontrollers. It's how these parts share information and work together smoothly.

Q3. How many protocols are there in embedded systems?

Ans.29 protocols are there in embedded systems. A lot of these protocols are streams of bytes that can be sent using different serial methods on types of hardware.

 
 

 

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