The Embedded Controller (EC) is a critical component within computer systems that manages various aspects of the hardware and software interaction. It acts as an intermediary between the system's hardware components, such as fans, power supplies, and sensors, and the operating system. This allows the EC to monitor and control these components, enabling features like automatic fan speed adjustment, sleep mode management, and sensor data collection. The EC is typically a small microcontroller chip embedded within the computer's motherboard or other components. It receives inputs from various sources, including hardware sensors and software interfaces, and uses this information to make decisions about system behavior. For example, if the ambient temperature exceeds a certain threshold, the EC can activate the fans to cool the system. In modern systems, the EC plays a crucial role in enabling advanced features like power management, thermal monitoring, and system health checks. It provides a platform for developers to create custom firmware and software solutions that can interact with the hardware components in sophisticated ways. By leveraging the capabilities of the EC, manufacturers can design more efficient, reliable, and user-friendly systems. Some common functions associated with the Embedded Controller include: Power management: controlling power states, monitoring voltage levels Thermal monitoring: tracking temperatures, activating cooling systems System health checks: monitoring system status, detecting faults Hardware control: managing fan speeds, setting alarm thresholds