Microcontroller
A microcontroller (abbreviated MCU or µC) is a high integrated functional computer system-on-a-chip. It contains an integrated processor core, memory (a small amount of RAM, program memory, or both), and programmable input/output peripherals.[1] In contrast to a microprocessor which only contains a CPU (the kind used in a PC). [2]
First released in 1971 by the Intel company, micro controllers began to become popular in their first few years. The extremely useful Intel 8008 was then released, but it was still impractical because of high cost for each item. These first micro controllers combined different types of computer memory on one chip. [3] After people began to see how useful they were, micro controllers were constantly being upgraded, with people trying to find new ways to make them better. Cost was reduced over time and by the early 2000s, micro controllers were widely used across the world.[4]
Other terms for a microcontroller are embedded system and embedded controller, because the microcontroller and its support circuits are often built into, or embedded in, a single chip.[5]
In addition to the usual arithmetic and logic elements of a general purpose microprocessor, the microcontroller integrates additional elements such as RAM for data storage, read-only memory for program storage, flash memory for permanent data storage, peripherals, and input/output interfaces.[6]
Microcontrollers often operate at very low speed compared to microprocessors (at clock speeds of as little as 32 kHz), but this is adequate for typical applications. They consume relatively little power (milliwatts or even micro watts).[7]
Microcontrollers are used in automatically controlled products and devices, such as automobile engine control systems, remote controls, machines, appliances, power tools, and toys, these are called embedded systems. Microcontrollers can also be found in the field of solar power and energy harvesting, anti-lock braking systems in cars, and have many uses the medical field as well.[8]
See also
References
- ↑ "Embedded Systems Dictionary" by Jack Ganssle and Mike Barr, p.173
- ↑ http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/microcontroller1.htm
- ↑ "Microcontrollers: Theory and Applications" by Ajay V Deshmukh, p.6
- ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcontroller
- ↑ http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/M/microcontroller.html
- ↑ http://www.mikroe.com/chapters/view/64/chapter-1-introduction-to-microcontrollers/
- ↑ http://www.engineersgarage.com/tutorials/difference-between-microprocessor-and-microcontroller#
- ↑ http://www.ti.com/lsds/ti/microcontrollers_16-bit_32-bit/applications.page
