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What's the Difference between Microprocessors and Microcontrollers?

linmarshalllin_marshall wrote 12/13/2021 at 03:41 • 4 min read • Like

Intro

The microprocessor, as well as microcontrollers, can be two frequently employed terms in electronics. What are they? What is the difference between them?

A microprocessor (MPU) can be described as an integrated circuit that executes the fundamental arithmetic and operational, and logical functions of computers. It includes the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) which processes the data, as well as a Control Unit (CU), which controls the activities that are performed by the ALU.

The microcontroller (MCU) can be described as one type of microprocessor which also has memory and input/output (I/O) ports as well as other functions needed to regulate devices like motors or actuators.

Both have advantages and drawbacks, however in general microcontrollers are better suited to controlling devices (such as washing machines MP3, Arduino interface, etc.) in contrast, microprocessors are more suited to general-purpose computing (e.g. personal computers).

The key difference between the Microcontroller and the Microprocessor Microprocessor

The primary distinction between the microprocessor and microcontroller is that the microprocessor is designed to function as general-purpose, whereas the microcontroller is equipped with the necessary peripheral components as well as an I/O port to allow it to be able to do specific tasks.

A microprocessor may also include additional peripheral components that are added to it in the course of manufacturing they are known as "peripherals" or "punts". A typical microprocessor could comprise a central processing unit (CPU) and memory controllers, a graphics processing unit as well as many I/O (I/O) ports.

A microcontroller is, in contrast, is designed to contain all the necessary features to accomplish a particular task like controlling the speed of a motor or reading information from sensors. A microcontroller includes the CPU as well as memory and I/O ports in the chip. To program the microprocessor you must include external computer peripherals in the order it can communicate with sensors and other equipment.

Pros & Cons of Microcontrollers and Microprocessors

 Advantages of Microcontrollers

1. Small size and affordable: Microcontrollers are generally less bulky than microprocessors and can be manufactured at a lower cost. This makes them an excellent option for any project which requires a small and low-cost controller.

2. Low power consumption: Because microcontrollers can be designed to run on very little power, they are designed for battery-operated devices such as watches or remote controls. In addition, for space-sensitive projects that require low power, an MCU is typically a better choice since it doesn't necessarily need an external power source which can take up more space.

3. Flexible: Microcontrollers can be programmed to control every electrical device - from small appliances to large industrial machines. The same chip can take the inputs of multiple sensors and carry out various tasks based on the inputs.

4. Packaging that is smaller: Microcontrollers can be packaged in a compact size, which makes them suitable for applications in which weight and size are crucial aspects.

Disadvantages of Microcontrollers

1. Limits in processing power: Microcontrollers are designed for specific functions, therefore they typically don't have the processing capabilities of microprocessors. They're not suitable in applications that require more complicated calculations.

2. Not upgradeable: The majority of microcontrollers are designed at the manufacturing facility and can't be changed afterward. This means they are not suitable for applications that might require changes or updates made to the application.

3. Insufficient input and output ports: Microcontrollers are limited in the number of output and input pins. This can be a challenge for applications that require more than some inputs and outputs.

Advantages of Microprocessors

1. The power of processing: Microprocessors have a much greater processing capacity than microcontrollers and are better suited to applications in which complex calculations are needed.

2. Microprocessors are equipped with I/O pins that are larger, which permits them to connect to actuators, sensors, as well as other peripherals from outside in a variety of ways, not only via high-level communication interfaces, like USB or Ethernet as well as directly via electrical pins.

3. Upgradeable: Microprocessors can be upgraded to incorporate new capabilities and features by installing a brand new operating system or firmware.

Disadvantages of Microprocessors

1. Costs are higher: Microprocessors are generally more expensive than microcontrollers.

2. More weight and size: Microprocessors are larger and heavier than microcontrollers and are therefore not suitable for applications in which size and weight are crucial aspects.

3. Power consumption is higher: Microprocessors consume more power than microcontrollers which is why they aren't the best choice for devices that run on batteries.

4. More complex programming: Microprocessors are designed for general-purpose computing. Therefore, they are more challenging programs than microcontrollers. This could be a challenge when applications require greater flexibility or for applications that might require modification shortly.

Summary

Which option should you pick in your venture? It is dependent on what you want it to perform. If you are looking for an all-purpose device that can run complicated programs, a microprocessor is an ideal choice. If you are looking for an instrument that can do a specific job but without the capacity in terms of expansion, or even manual operation, a microcontroller is the most suitable option.

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