Real-time processing

A mode of operation where data received is immediately processed, stored data is updated and any necessary actions taken.

The computer used in a real-time system is dedicated - it does nothing else.

Examples:

An example of a real-time system is a Process-Control System. Input data received from sensors is processed immediately, analysed and any necessary actions taken without any delay.

 

Other examples would be 
  • a flight simulator.
  • a computer guided missile
  • air traffic control system