1.6 Summary

Embedded microprocessors are everywhere. Microprocessors allow sophisticated algorithms and user interfaces to be added relatively inexpensively to an amazing variety of products. Microprocessors also help reduce design complexity and time by separating out hardware and software design. Embedded system design is much more complex than programming PCs because we must meet multiple design constraints, including performance, cost, and so on. In the remainder of this book, we will build a set of techniques from the bottom up that will allow us to conceive, design, and implement sophisticated microprocessor-based systems.