Microcontroller

 What is a microcontroller ?

A microcontroller is a small and low-cost microcomputer, which is designed to perform the specific tasks of embedded systems.

The general microcontroller consists of the processor, the memory (RAM, ROM, EPROM), Serial ports, peripherals (timers, counters), etc.

A microcontroller (MCU for microcontroller unit) is a small computer on a single metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) integrated circuit (IC) chip. A microcontroller contains one or more CPUs (processor cores) along with memory and programmable input/output peripherals.(wikipedia).

Types of Microcontrollers - 

Microcontrollers are divided into various categories based on memory, architecture, bits and instruction sets. Following is the list of their types −

• Bit

Based on bit configuration, the microcontroller is further divided into three categories.

• 8-bit microcontroller − This type of microcontroller is used to execute arithmetic and logical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication division, etc. For example, Intel 8031 and 8051 are 8 bits microcontroller.

• 16-bit microcontroller − This type of microcontroller is used to perform arithmetic and logical operations where higher accuracy and performance is required. For example, Intel 8096 is a 16-bit microcontroller.

• 32-bit microcontroller − This type of microcontroller is generally used in automatically controlled appliances like automatic operational machines, medical appliances, etc.

• Memory

Based on the memory configuration, the microcontroller is further divided into two categories.

• External memory microcontroller − This type of microcontroller is designed in such a way that they do not have a program memory on the chip. Hence, it is named as external memory microcontroller. For example: Intel 8031 microcontroller.

• Embedded memory microcontroller − This type of microcontroller is designed in such a way that the microcontroller has all programs and data memory, counters and timers, interrupts, I/O ports are embedded on the chip. For example: Intel 8051 microcontroller.

• Instruction Set

Based on the instruction set configuration, the microcontroller is further divided into two categories.

• CISC − CISC stands for complex instruction set computer. It allows the user to insert a single instruction as an alternative to many simple instructions.

• RISC − RISC stands for Reduced Instruction Set Computers. It reduces the operational time by shortening the clock cycle per instruction.

Applications of Microcontrollers -

Application of Microcontroller in Day to Day Life Devices:

• Light sensing & controlling devices
• Temperature sensing and controlling devices
• Fire detection & safety devices
• Industrial instrumentation devices
• Process control devices

Application of microcontroller in Industrial Control Devices:

• Industrial instrumentation devices
• Process control devices

Application  of  microcontroller  in  Metering  &  Measurement Devices:

• Volt Meter
• Measuring revolving objects
• Current meter
• Hand-held metering systems

What is a microcontroller used for?

Microcontrollers are used in computer keyboards, monitors, printers, copiers, fax machines, and telephone systems to name a few. In your home, microcontrollers are used in microwave ovens, washers and dryers, security systems, lawn sprinkler station controllers, and music/video entertainment components.