Embedded operating system

An embedded operating system is an operating system designed specifically for embedded computer systems, whose aim is to perform dedicated tasks with reliability. When its multitasking lets tasks run on time, it may qualify as a real-time operating system. Such systems run inside cameras, mobile phones, automotive electronics such as cruise control and navigation, factory automation, office devices like scanners and photocopiers, wireless access points and home security systems. Because embedded hardware is limited and usually unique to its application, these operating systems are given a narrow scope and are often written in portable languages like C, sometimes with assembly code for speed. The article traces the idea from the real-time multitasking kernel of the late 1970s into the full real-time operating systems that came to include networking, file management and debugging.