Embedded
Systems

We develop custom embedded hardware and software – for industry, special applications, and safety-critical systems. With technical depth and cross-industry experience, we support your project from the initial design to market readiness – or specifically strengthen your internal team with our expertise.

What are Embedded Systems?

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems integrated into devices or machines that perform a specific function. Unlike general-purpose computers such as PCs or smartphones, embedded systems typically operate in real-time, with significantly limited resources, and under demanding conditions. They are essential for products and applications requiring automation, monitoring, and control.

Typical Industries and Applications of Embedded Systems:

  • Industries: Sensors, Industrial Controls, Switchgear, Electric Motors
  • Robotics: Drives, Communication, Vision Systems, and Image Data Processing
  • Armor: Steering, Communication, and Reconnaissance Systems
  • Railway Technology: Track and Signaling Controls
  • Automotive Technology: Control units such as air conditioning, braking, and navigation systems
  • Power supply: Smart meters, power electronic controls, inverters, and converters
  • Aviation: Steering and radar systems, engines, radar

Your product at the center – we deliver the technology for it

Every development begins with a clear objective: to bring your product idea to life. To achieve this, we jointly analyze the technical, regulatory, and economic conditions. Whether it's a proof-of-concept, a platform strategy, or long-term series support – our embedded development is always guided by your market goals and your roadmap.

Systems Engineering & Architecture

We plan, structure, and document your embedded system – including interfaces, computing architecture, and security requirements. From standards-compliant system architecture to integration into complex system landscapes.

Embedded Software Development

We develop microcontroller-level software – from bootloaders and firmware to applications. Whether it's real-time behavior, safety requirements, or updatability – our software meets stringent demands while maintaining high flexibility.

Embedded Hardware Development

The development of electronics for embedded systems includes PCB layouts, schematics, prototypes, and series production preparation. Our hardware designs are optimally tailored to system requirements, including EMC, thermal management, and mechanical integration.

Prototyping and series production transfer

From proof-of-concept to production-ready platform: We provide hardware samples, perform commissioning, and support you with qualification and certification. Thanks to modular hardware and software components, we can adapt quickly.

Embedded Systems from our Hands

Embedded systems take on clearly defined functions in devices, machines, and complex technical systems. Depending on the intended use, the architecture, performance, and security requirements vary considerably. PICKPLACE supports customers in developing all types of embedded systems from scratch. Here is an overview of typical types of embedded systems:

Electronic Control Units (ECUs)

Control units regulate functions in vehicle technology, industrial electronics, or rail applications. They control sensors, actuators, or entire subsystems, handle power switching, and are often deeply integrated into safety-relevant processes.

Signal processing, converters & sensor technology

These systems capture and process data from the environment—such as from temperature, light, or motion sensors. This also includes image processing and embedded video processing. The systems handle filtering, transformation, or data classification.

Gateways & Communication

Gateways connect embedded systems to networks or other subsystems. They master classic protocols (CAN, Ethernet, Modbus) as well as wireless communication such as WLAN, NFC, or cellular – often with requirements for latency, security, and interoperability.

Control, Automation & Power Electronics

These systems control physical quantities such as pressure, current, or rotational speed – often in conjunction with inverter or converter units. They are central to machine control, network management, or drive control – with requirements for real-time performance and EMC.

Mission-critical systems

A safety-critical embedded system fulfills additional requirements for error prevention, self-monitoring, and structural redundancy. Safety-by-design, safe states in case of failure, and standards-compliant development processes are key features.

Information & Entertainment Systems

These systems are used for playback, data display, or device control – in vehicles, machines, or public applications. They include audio and video applications, as well as network and storage functions.

Embedded systems are the invisible backbone of modern technology – they control, secure, and connect our world, often without us realizing it.

Dr. Hendrik Schnack