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Difference between Hard real time and Soft real time system

Last Updated : 05 May, 2023
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Real time system is defined as a system in which job has deadline, job has to finished by the deadline (strictly finished). If a result is delayed, huge loss may happen. 

A real-time operating system (RTOS) is a type of operating system that is designed to meet strict time constraints, with a guaranteed response time for critical tasks.

An example of an RTOS is the FreeRTOS, which is widely used in embedded systems, IoT devices, and industrial control systems. FreeRTOS provides a set of real-time kernel services, such as task management, inter-task communication, and time management, to help developers create reliable and deterministic real-time applications.

For instance, in a medical device that monitors a patient’s vital signs, a real-time operating system such as FreeRTOS can ensure that the data is collected, processed, and displayed in a timely and accurate manner, even under heavy system load, without sacrificing the responsiveness and stability of the system.

1. Hard Real Time System: 
Hard real time is a system whose operation is incorrect whose result is not produce according to time constraint. 
For example,

1. Air Traffic Control
2. Medical System 

In hard real-time systems, timing constraints are extremely strict and failure to meet a deadline can have serious consequences, such as human injury or equipment damage. These systems typically require deterministic and predictable behavior, with a guaranteed response time for critical tasks. Examples include medical equipment, military defense systems, and industrial control systems.

2. Soft Real Time System: 
Soft real time system is a system whose operation is degrade if results are not produce according to the specified timing requirement. 
For example,

1. Multimedia Transmission and Reception
2. Computer Games 
  3. Communication system like voice over Ip 

Difference between Hard real time and Soft real time system

HARD REAL TIME SYSTEM SOFT REAL TIME SYSTEM
In hard real time system, the size of data file is small or medium. In soft real time system, the size of data file is large.
In this system response time is in millisecond. In this system response time are higher.
Peak load performance should be predictable. In soft real time system, peak load can be tolerated.
In this system safety is critical. In this system safety is not critical.
A hard real time system is very restrictive. A Soft real time system is less restrictive.
In case of an error in a hard real time system, the computation is rolled back. In case of an soft real time system, computation is rolled back to previously established a checkpoint.
Satellite launch, Railway signaling system etc. DVD player, telephone switches, electronic games etc.
Guarantees response within a specific deadline. Does not guarantee response within a specific deadline.
Catastrophic or severe consequences (e.g., loss of life or property damage). Minor consequences (e.g., degraded performance or reduced quality).
Focused on processing critical tasks with high priority. Focused on processing tasks with lower priority.
Highly predictable, with well-defined and deterministic behavior.  Less predictable, with behavior that may vary depending on system load or conditions.
 

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