What is a Microcontroller?

Definition

• A microcontroller is a small computer embedded on a chip, also known as a system-on-chip.
• It differs from a microprocessor which only contains the processor core.
• Microcontrollers include:
  • Processor core
  • Memory
  • I/O interface

Function

• Both microcontrollers and microprocessors serve as the brains of smart electronic devices.

History

• First microcontroller created in 1974 by Texas Instruments (TMS-1000 series).
• TMS-1000:
  • 4-bit computer embedded in a chip.
  • Equipped with RAM and ROM.
  • Size comparable to a pencil eraser.

Evolution

• Microcontrollers have evolved significantly in size.
• Smallest microcontroller today: volume of 1.05 mm (smaller than a grain of rice).
• Analogy: "like looking for a microcontroller in a pile of rice."

Components Required for Functionality

• Microcontroller requires a minimum system (Sismin):
  • Power Circuit: Provides electricity supply.
  • Clock Circuit: Gives digital pulses (heartbeat).
  • Reset Circuit: Resets the program in case of malfunction.
  • Programming Chip: Used to write programs onto the microcontroller IC.

Programming

• Unlike microprocessors, microcontrollers allow for rewritable programs.
• Programming languages used:
  • BASIC
  • C
  • Assembler
• Programs are translated into machine language (hexadecimal numbers) and then into binary (1s and 0s).
• Language conversion is handled by software and chip programming.

Modern Microcontrollers

• Many modern microcontrollers come with:
  • Input/output pins
  • Complete peripherals (e.g., Ethernet port, serial port, external memory slot).
• Popular microcontroller boards:
  • Arduino
  • Raspberry Pi
  • Adafruit

Impact on Electronics

• The digital age has transformed electronics making it more accessible:
  • Electronic devices can now be created by people without extensive expertise.
  • Younger generations can engage in robotics and electronics easily.

Conclusion

• The world of electronics is evolving rapidly, and microcontrollers are at the center of this transformation.
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