There was a time when you could buy a microwave that had a turn-dial instead of a digital display - embedded controllers make those digital displays possible. Those little embedded controller systems tell the device what to do and how to do it.

If embedded controller hardware can make such a difference to how an everyday appliance functions, consider the changes that can be made to your products and how those changes will enhance the usability. Think about this:

1. Embedded controllers have multiple uses in today's world

2. Adding embedded control systems to a product could improve the customer experience

3. As the tech industry grows, the need for embedded controllers will grow with it

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy embedded controller hardware

Instead of rushing out and hiring somebody for embedded control systems design, it might be more cost effective to find pre-manufactured embedded control systems. Some of these systems are complete, offering the software pre-installed, while others may need you to design or purchase software for them.

I recommend: For a customizable prefabricated embedded control, MistyDSP manufactures a fantastic embedded controller board in various models that are ready for your software. Tern, Inc. offers another selection of embedded hardware systems for sale programmable to meet the needs of your product.

Purchase an embedded controller program

Embedded controller software is out there. Often times, the functionality you seek for your product already exists as a software solution. Finding a source for this software or a developer to outsource to is fairly easy.

I recommend: A great place to outsource software development to is Mercury Development. They offer a number of services to help you develop the perfect software. National Instruments offers a range of pre-coded software suited to various tasks and compatible with an ACPI embedded controller.

Use an embedded USB controller for your product

If you're developing a product that you want to connect to a computer, or if you'd like it to have the ability to communicate with a computer, using an embedded USB controller will solve your problems. Instead of taking processing power away from another aspect of your device, an embedded USB controller will control the USB communication, leaving other resources available for higher priority tasks.

I recommend: For an amazing chip that handles multi I/O connections, check out Engineering Spirit. With the ability to ship world wide, Engineering Spirit may as well be a few states away. Newark offers a selection of chips from various manufacturers that will help with your USB controller needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Try building an embedded controller that will withstand the test of time. Considering environmental worries, shrinking resources and the speed which technology goes obsolete, consumers are looking for products that will last a number of years instead of being next to useless six months after purchase.