Desktop OS vs Embedded OS

The difference between a desktop operating system and an embedded operating system is explained in this article. But, before we get into the differences, it's very important to know the desktop and embedded operating systems briefly.

What is Desktop Operating System?

A user uses a personal computer using the desktop operating system (Desktop, Notebook PC). The operating system acts as a link between computer applications and hardware. It simplifies the management of computer hardware and software. The basic functions are task scheduling, peripheral control, printing, input/output, and memory allocation.

Some operating systems are preloaded on new computers, while others require installation. The most prevalent desktop operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Linux, and MacOS. Today's operating systems use the Graphical User Interface (GUI). The GUI allows you to click on icons, buttons, and menus with your mouse. A combination of text and visuals presents everything on the screen.

Windows is preinstalled in new operating systems, making it the most widely used. The most recent versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system, which was first released in the mid-1980s, include Windows 11 (2021), Windows 10 (2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Apple's MacOS is another prominent operating system preloaded on all Macintosh computers. The most popular MacOS versions include Mojave (2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016). MacOS has a global market share of less than 10%, far less than Microsoft Windows (More than 80 percent).

Functions of Desktop Operating System

• Memory management
• Device/hardware management
• Run software applications
• Processor management
• Provides user interface
• Input/output management
• Data management
• Evaluate system health
• Time management
• Interrupt handling

Advantages of Desktop Operating System

There are various advantages of the Desktop Operating System. Some of the advantages are as follows:

1. The operating system allows for transferring various photographs, applications, and media assets from one machine to another. Users may connect through modems, printers, and media players with the help of the operating system. Additionally, a single user can simultaneously email the same content to several persons.
2. All users will benefit from the operating system's user-friendly visual interface. There are also a variety of icons, menus, buttons, and navigation options. People will engage with the computer system as a result.
3. An operating system is capable of handling several tasks at the same time. It allows users to work on many projects at the same time. It is not necessary to shut one window to open another.
4. There is a large quantity of user data on the computer that can only be accessed with the aid of an operating system. One of the OS's most important roles, aside from storing and accessing data, is to manage data appropriately and securely.
5. Upgrading an operating system is straightforward. An operating system is a piece of software that must be updated regularly to keep up with rapidly changing features. Other programs and software must receive upgrades to expand their usefulness, and operating systems must improve their benchmarks and manage all elements of computer functioning.

Disadvantages of Desktop Operating System

There are various disadvantages of the Desktop Operating System. Some of the disadvantages are as follows:

1. All other platforms are typically pricey unless they are open-source operating systems. Even though customers choose to use a free operating system, this is not always the best option because it lacks certain functions. The cost rises considerably higher if the operating system incorporates GUI features.
2. The operating system of a computer is critical software. The computer will not function without an operating system. As a result, any malfunctions in the operating system will impact the entire machine. This effectively implies that the CPU will cease to process data, and other hardware components will cease to function.
3. The language used to create an operating system adds to its complexity. A typical user will be unable to comprehend this language. As a result, problems in the OS cannot be solved only by studying its language.
4. Viruses in an operating system are always more harmful. Users may unwittingly download dangerous applications, browse malicious websites, or open virus-infected email attachments, all of which can expose a computer to infections.
5. Internal fragmentation of operating systems is also a problem. Fragmentation is the process of breaking stored memory into fragments. Insufficient storage capacity will result if the procedure requires more space than was allotted. As a result, the process will take up far less space than required, fragmenting the system internally.

What is an Embedded Operating System?

A customized operating system (OS) built to fulfill a specific purpose for a device that is not a computer is an embedded operating system. An embedded OS's primary function is to run the code that allows the device to function. The embedded OS also allows applications running on top of the OS to access the device's hardware.

A computer that supports a machine is known as an embedded system. In the larger machine, it completes one duty. Embedded operating systems are frequently used within embedded systems. Automobile computer systems, traffic lights, digital televisions, ATMs, airline controls, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, digital cameras, GPS navigation systems, elevators, and smart meters are all examples of electronic devices.

The internet of things comprises objects with embedded technology (IoT) networks. Embedded systems execute essential functions in IoT devices, such as data transfer via a network without human intervention.

How does an Embedded OS Work?

The machine's software is known as the embedded operating system (OS). An embedded operating system enables a device to work as part of a larger system. It communicates with the embedded system's hardware to complete a certain task. For example, an elevator may include embedded technology, such as a microprocessor or microcontroller, to detect which buttons the passenger is pressing.

An embedded OS, unlike a general-purpose operating system, has limited capabilities. Depending on the hardware, the system may only be able to run single embedded software. Given this, an embedded OS must be dependable and capable of operating under memory and processing power limits. On the other hand, that application is most likely critical to the device's functionality.

In the case of a Raspberry PI system on a chip, an SD card acts as the device's hard drive and contains the code that runs on it. Because the SD card is removable, its contents may be changed. Raspberry PI devices may run a variety of operating systems. The embedded OS enables the software to communicate with the device's hardware, such as USB and HDMI ports.

Embedded Operating System Examples

There are some examples of embedded Operating systems:

• Industrial control systems (ICS)
• Arduino-based devices
• Electric vehicles
• Cellphones
• ATMs

Common Uses of Embedded OS

Embedded operating systems are used in a variety of applications.

• Industrial control systems (ICS): Sensors are employed in industrial control systems to monitor production conditions and send out warnings if they become hazardous. Sensors are equipped with an embedded operating system to carry out these functions.
• Electric vehicles: Embedded OS run on microcontrollers and handle braking and pressure sensing operations. This type of function is a reactive operation since it reacts to input. A particular amount of pressure on the front bumper, for example, may trigger the airbag to deploy.
• ATMs: ATMs feature basic operating systems to read a user's debit card and PIN and execute bank account operations such as withdrawals and balance checks. The OS's primary functions respond to user input and connect with the ATM hardware.
• Cellphones: To start the phone and allow applications to interface with other phone hardware, phones need an operating system like Android or iOS.
• Basic input/output system: BIOS is the software that allows a desktop computer's more complicated OS to communicate with the computer hardware. It might be called an embedded OS in some situations.
• Traffic lights: Embedded operating systems allow a traffic light to cycle through several signals at predetermined times.

Types of Embedded Operating System

Embedded operating systems are created with the goal in mind. The following are examples of different types of operating systems:

• Real-time operating system: The purpose of a real-time operating system is to be reactive. It processes inputs as they come in and reacts within a set time. If the response time exceeds the specified period, the system may fail. Monotonic rate scheduling, which prioritizes jobs, is occasionally utilized in real-time operating systems.
• Multitasking operating system: A multitasking operating system can handle many tasks simultaneously. To complete simple tasks, it uses a work schedule. A mobile operating system, for example, allocates CPU resources across numerous activities.
• Single loop control system: Only one variable is controlled by this type of embedded OS. Temperature management in a smart house is one example. A smart thermostat monitors the temperature in the home and switches off the heat if it rises beyond the user-defined threshold.

Conclusion

The program and operating system are often bundled into a single executable image, the primary difference between embedded and desktop operating systems. Unlike a desktop OS, the embedded system usually loads and runs single applications at the user's request.