Systems and methods for a real time embedded trace are provided. In certain embodiments, a system for acquiring data that uses a real time embedded trace includes a first computing system. The first computing system includes a memory unit; and a processing unit executing software, wherein the software comprises at least one real time trace instruction. Further, the at least one real time trace instruction directs the processing unit to directly store data onto the memory unit; and wherein the stored data is translated for a user after it is stored onto the memory unit.