Embedded devices have become an integral part of our daily lives, often working behind the scenes to power a wide range of applications and systems. These devices come in various shapes and sizes, and one critical aspect to consider when designing them is the choice of display. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what embedded devices are, delve into different types of displays available for them, and discuss the advantages of each. Whether you’re developing a smart thermostat, a wearable device, or an industrial control system, this article will help you make an informed decision regarding your display choice.
Understanding Embedded Devices
Embedded devices, often referred to as embedded systems or simply “embeds,” are specialized computing systems designed to perform dedicated functions or tasks. Unlike general-purpose computers, which can run a wide range of software, embedded devices are tailored for specific applications. They consist of a microcontroller or microprocessor, memory, and various peripherals, all packaged into a compact, often low-power form factor.
In case you were wondering, embedded devices are everywhere. To name a few:
Smart appliances: Think of your microwave or washing machine.
Wearable technology: Smartwatches and fitness trackers are prime examples.
Automotive systems: Embedded devices control everything from engine performance to infotainment systems.
Industrial automation: Manufacturing robots and control systems rely on embedded devices.
Medical equipment: Devices like heart rate monitors and infusion pumps are driven by embedded systems.
As you can see, embedded devices are omnipresent and we use them on a daily basis without even being aware. Now, let’s explore the world of display options for embedded devices.
Types of displays for embedded devices
Choosing the right display for your embedded device is a crucial decision that depends on factors like form factor, power consumption, and intended use. Here are some of the most common types of displays used in embedded systems:
LCD Displays (Liquid Crystal Displays):
LCD displays are one of the most widespread displays in use for embedded devices. These are widely available in various sizes and configurations and on top of that, they offer excellent color accuracy and brightness, making color LCD screens an ideal choice for your embedded device.
Also, due to their low power consumption, they’re suitable for battery-powered devices. Today, they’re mostly used in smartphones, tablets and digital cameras.
OLED Displays (Organic Light-Emitting Diode):
OLED displays provide vibrant colors and high contrast and have a slightly faster response time compared to LCDs. Each pixel emits its own light, allowing for true blacks and energy-efficient operation. As such, they find their place in high-end smartphones as well as TVs.
E-Paper Displays (Electronic Paper Displays):
E-paper mimics the appearance of actual paper, reducing eye strain during prolonged reading or reading in rooms with limited light. One of their main advantages is their ultra-low power consumption as almost no energy is needed to maintain a static image. These provide excellent outdoor readability, even when in direct sunlight, meaning you’ll be able to read your favorite author in the park or nearby waterfront without worrying about the sunlight. Naturally, some of their most popular usages are in e-readers like the Amazon Kindle.
LED Displays (Light-Emitting Diode):
LEDs are highly visible, even in well-lit environments. They offer long lifespans and are energy-efficient. LED screens are Ideal for displaying simple alphanumeric characters and numeric data. Hence, this technology is widely used in scoreboards at sports events, digital clocks and numeric displays and industrial control panels as well.
Touchscreen Displays:
Touchscreen displays provide intuitive user interfaces and they eliminate the need for external input devices like keyboards or mice, making them a great solution for when you want to declutter your space or not get tangled up in cables. Many of the touchscreen displays are used in interactive kiosks, smartphones, and tablets. Also, you’ve probably noticed the increased usage of touchscreens in ATMs and point-of-sale(POS) systems.
Making the right decision for your embedded device
Selecting the right display for your embedded device is a critical decision that hinges on factors such as your device’s intended use, power requirements, and form factor constraints. You’ll have to be aware of your device’s specifications before you choose a display. Also, your decision will depend on how and where you plan on using your device.
Here are some steps to guide you through the selection process and help get you started:
1. Define Your Use Case:
Determine the specific requirements of your embedded device. What kind of information will it display? Will it be primarily text, images, or a combination of both? If you’re displaying mainly text, then you probably won’t need a wide specter of vibrant colors. However, if your device is mostly going to be used to display colorful images, then a color LCD display with high-resolution is a must.
2. Consider Power Consumption:
Assess the power constraints of your device. If it’s battery-powered, you’ll want a display with low power consumption to maximize battery life. If not, then you can be a bit more flexible.
3. Evaluate Size and Form Factor:
Choose a display size and form factor that fits your device’s design. Consider factors like available space and ergonomics.
4. Think About User Interaction:
If your device requires user input, consider a touchscreen display for a more intuitive interface, especially if the device is going to be used regularly in industrial settings where the contact with the device is quite frequent.
5. Assess Environmental Conditions:
Take into account the operating environment of your device. Will it be used indoors or outdoors? Different displays perform better in various lighting conditions.
6. Budget Considerations:
Balance your display choice with your budget constraints. Some displays, like OLEDs, may be more expensive than LCDs or LEDs. Therefore, have an allocated budget in place before you start making decisions.
The final word
To sum it all up, selecting the right display for your embedded device is a critical step in the design process. Each type of display comes with its own set of advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and constraints. By carefully considering factors like power consumption, use case, size, and user interaction requirements, you can make an informed decision that ensures your embedded device performs optimally and meets user expectations.
