For starters, I've been learning analog circuits for a while and have run a grow light company for which I've made the led panels, power supplies, as well as the dimmer circuits.

I want to take my knowledge to next level and create a humidifier which will sense the humidity in the air and automatically control output to maintain a desired level (looking at pwm controlled output for this one). I know that I need to learn digital programming for this one, but I understand that software is 'one' part of it.

I've been looking to understand the entire system behind it as it will help me sort my choices down the line with respect to optimizing costs, reliability, as well as not going overkill on what's needed.

I believe that learning embedded systems with a focus on digital programming is the way to go for such projects but I want to know from those experienced whether I'm correct, as the terms can be quite confusing on the internet.

Thank you.