15.1: Introduction

As mentioned earlier, it is possible to break down computer programming into two broad camps: desktop applications and embedded applications. The embedded application market is ubiquitous but somewhat hidden to the average user. A typical person doesn’t even realize that they’re running an embedded program while they’re using their cell phone, DVD player or microwave oven. Certainly, the trappings of a “normal” computer generally do not exist in these instances; there’s usually no monitor or keyboard to speak of. From a programmer’s perspective, what’s different about the two and how is program development and testing affected?

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