Hello there,

I hope I have posted this in the correct forum.

My question is as follows: What are the differences between a general purpose computer system and an embedded computer system?

If I recall correctly, an embedded computer system is designed to perform a single task, and is "embedded" in a larger unit -- i.e. cellphones, calculators, microwave ovens, etc...

Now... what is a general purpose computer system??? Is it simply a Windows PC?

Thanks for any and all assistance,
brookeville

Yep, pretty much.

Embedded systems are pretty much anything that has computer logic beyond a circuit board and some chips; something that has a UI. It can be a cell phone, a DVR, DVD player, etc. Think of most consumer electronic devices.

A GP computer is one that doesn't have a set function, like a desktop or laptop. Different software can be put on it to allow it to have different purposes.

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Common Sense v2.0-Striving to make the world a little bit smarter.

Thank you, crystalattice. I feel more confident in my answer now, and I appreciate your help.

Another "computer terms" question has come up. The question asks "what is the relationship between a computer system and an information system?"

I know that an information system involves hardware, software, data, people and procedures. Though, I cannot find computer system defined anywhere. Are the two terms interchangeable?

Many thanks for any and all help!

Typically a computer system is defined as a physical computer and the components connected to it to make it usable, not counting the network or peripherals like a printer. So that would be the monitor, computer case, keyboard, and mouse.

I wouldn't advise mixing the two terms. IS is more like an overall scope of computers, networks, and computing practices, typically inline with how to manage them. Computer systems are more like an individual desk computer.

__________________
Common Sense v2.0-Striving to make the world a little bit smarter.

Thanks again for your help, crystalattice. The distinction between the two terms is much clearer to me now.