teach-ict.com logo

THE education site for computer science and ICT

2. Computers in the home - appliances

Apart from the obvious presence of a laptop or desktop computer at home, there are many other places where computer systems can be found as well.

Domestic appliances

Many domestic appliances now contain an embedded computer system to carry out their controlcomputers in the home functions.

For example a modern washing machine has a computer system to handle all the complex washing cycles. It ensures that the correct amount of water is used for the programme selected and that the water is heated to the correct temperature.

Other examples of embedded computer systems in the home:

  • central heating system
  • burglar alarm system
  • fire alarm system
  • microwave
  • dishwasher

In a way, computers systems such as these are 'invisible' to the user. You simply accept that the machine can do these things.

But engineers have to develop these systems to make life a lot easier.

 

Challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you

Click on this link: Computers in the home