A microcontroller is a miniaturized computer on a single integrated circuit (IC). It contains a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output (I/O) peripherals. MCUs are used in a wide variety of electronic devices, including appliances, toys, and industrial equipment.
The CPU of an MCU is responsible for carrying out instructions and performing calculations. The memory stores the program instructions and data that the MCU uses. The I/O peripherals allow the MCU to communicate with the outside world.
MCUs are typically programmed in assembly language or C. Assembly language is a low-level programming language that is closely related to the machine code of the MCU. C is a high-level programming language that is easier to learn and use than assembly language.
Microprocessors (MPUs)
A microprocessor is a more powerful type of CPU than an MCU. It is typically used in personal computers, smartphones, and other high-end electronic devices.
MPUs are typically programmed in assembly language or C. They can also be programmed in other high-level languages, such as Java, Python, and Ruby.
Comparison of MCUs and MPUs
The main difference between an MCU and an MPU is the amount of power that it can handle. MCUs are typically used in low-power applications, while MPUs are used in high-power applications.
Another difference between MCUs and MPUs is the number of I/O peripherals that they have. MCUs typically have a limited number of I/O peripherals, while MPUs have a large number of I/O peripherals.
Applications of MCUs and MPUs
MCUs are used in a wide variety of electronic devices, including:
* Appliances
* Toys
* Industrial equipment
* Medical devices
* Automotive electronics
* Wearable devices
MPUs are used in a wide variety of electronic devices, including:
* Personal computers
* Smartphones
* Tablets
* Gaming consoles
* Servers
* Mainframes