What is a system architecture?

What is a system architecture?

A system architecture is the conceptual model that defines the structure, behavior and various representations of a system. An architecture description is a formal description and representation of a system, organized in a way that supports reasoning about the structures and behavior of the system.

This briefly means that a system architect will break down the various functions of a product. In this way, the optimal choice for realization can be made for each component or function.

In fact, when each component is carefully considered to see what will offer the best results, a high quality product is ultimately created.

The trade-offs in system architecture

Trade-offs made to split off parts of a product are made in several areas. We have listed some of the important trade-offs:

• make/buy of software, hardware, enclosures;
• realization of functionality in hardware or in software;
• choice of microcontroller/FPGA;
• deployment of Single Board Computer (Raspberry Pi, Beaglebone etc).
  

Attention by component

Specific attention is given to improvement or development for each part of the product. 

For example, appropriate component choices are made for the main functions. But the necessary hardware interfaces are also chosen, and the architecture is also defined at the software level.

Software considerations include whether to use an RTOS (Real Time Operating System), Linux, Embedded Windows, or a bare metal implementation. These various considerations are made based on the best choice for the product. 

Finally, the form factor of the product is also considered. This may show that a division into multiple physical modules is necessary or more practical.

An ADD

All these considerations and solutions/improvements are called the architecture. The architecture is recorded in an Architectural Design Document (ADD). 

This is a technical document that describes the components and specifications needed to support the solution and ensure that the specific business and technical requirements of the design are met. The architectural design document includes the conceptual, logical and physical designs.



Curious about the different solutions in system architecture for your products? Feel free to contact us without obligation. We will be happy to look at the possibilities for you.