There are electronics and computers in just about everything these days – from coffee makers to doorbells to “invisible” dog fences. These electronic systems are known as Embedded Systems. Unlike business computers, these devices are used in home automation, medical devices, laboratory instruments, transit, etc. and are often connected to the cloud.

The world of embedded systems has moved so quickly that it is hard to say what exactly the future holds for them but this presentation will discuss how they started, where they have been, and what they have become. Both the novice and the experienced engineer will find this of interest.

David A. Durfee is the President of Bay Computer Associates, Inc. , a contract electronics and software design firm in Cranston, RI. He has been an embedded systems engineer since 1980 and is an adjunct lecturer for Brown University’s School of Engineering.