A computationally powerful digital signal processor (DSP)-based implementation of adaptive speed control algorithms for a diesel-driven electric generating unit is described in this paper. The complexity of the algorithm and the short control interval required for this application necessitated the use of a DSP. Hardware and software have been designed such that the overall structure of the adaptive controller is similar to the corresponding components of a commercially available PI controller. Illustrative real-time tests with the proposed adaptive controller and the commercial controller illustrate the effectiveness of the adaptive controller.