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An embedded system is a computer system with a dedicated function within a larger mechanical or electrical system, often with real-time computing constraints. Examples of properties typical of embedded computers when compared with general-purpose ones are low power consumption, small size, rugged operating ranges, and low per-unit cost. Modern embedded systems are often based on microcontrollers; the processor(s) used may be types ranging from general purpose to those specialised in certain class of computations, or even custom designed for the application at hand. A common standard class of dedicated processors is the digital signal processor (DSP).