Editing Microprocessor (section)

==Embedded applications==
Thousands of items that were traditionally not computer-related include microprocessors. These include household [[home appliance|appliance]]s, vehicles (and their accessories), tools and test instruments, toys, light switches/dimmers and [[Arc-fault circuit interrupter|electrical circuit breakers]], smoke alarms, battery packs, and hi-fi audio/visual components (from [[DVD player]]s to [[Phonograph#Turntable technology|phonograph turntables]]). Such products as cellular telephones, [[DVD video]] system and [[HDTV]] broadcast systems fundamentally require consumer devices with powerful, low-cost, microprocessors. Increasingly stringent pollution control standards effectively require automobile manufacturers to use microprocessor engine management systems to allow optimal control of emissions over the widely varying operating conditions of an automobile. Non-programmable controls would require bulky, or costly implementation to achieve the results possible with a microprocessor.

A microprocessor control program ([[embedded software]]) can be tailored to fit the needs of a product line, allowing upgrades in performance with minimal redesign of the product. Unique features can be implemented in product line's various models at negligible production cost.

Microprocessor control of a system can provide control strategies that would be impractical to implement using electromechanical controls or purpose-built electronic controls. For example, an internal combustion engine's control system can adjust ignition timing based on engine speed, load, temperature, and any observed tendency for knocking—allowing the engine to operate on a range of fuel grades.