The Brain within an Embedded System-Difference between Microprocessors and Microcontrollers

To understand the working of an Integrated Circuit, we need to first understand what an Embedded System is.

It is basically a conjunction of Hardware and Software parts. Embedded System is a stripped-down version of a mainstream computer, specializing in a single task. They are connected either as a standalone device, or as part of a larger electrical or mechanical system.

Mainly in consumer electronics like fridges or microwaves, they have low power rating and, is economical to build.

Embedded system performs complex mathematical calculations at any specific time. This is done thru a Central Processing Unit (CPU), mostly a Microcontroller or at times, a Microprocessor.

A Sensor is used to collect data from the external environment Eg: Temperature, atmospheric pressure etc. This is then fed into an Analog to Digital (ADC) converter. The digital signal thus obtained is stored in memory and, decoded by the CPU.

The output of the operation is then fed to a Digital to Analog (DAC) converter. The resulting analog signal is send to an Actuator, which converts electrical signal into mechanical or pneumatic action Eg: Motor or Hydraulic press.

So, what is the basic difference between these two Integrated Circuits.

Microcontrollers are basically small computers with a Central Processing Unit (CPU), inbuilt memory (RAM, ROM), output peripherals and BUS connections. They specialize in a single task. The working clock speed is low, in MHz. They have different programming languages which varies with manufacturers. Low cost and reduced power consumption are the main highlights. Espressif ESP32 is a notable example.

Microprocessors are basically a digital system that assimilate data, decode and then, execute them. They are mainly used for general purpose computing and, performs multiple tasks at any given time. However, they need to be connected to external memory, provide separate peripheral boards, and BUS configuration. Consuming more power, their clock speed is calculated in GHz. Examples include Pentium and AMD processors.

Even though embedded systems mainly use microcontrollers, there are certain areas where both are used in conjunction.

The usage of the above, depends on the type of application. Where low power and high integration is concerned, Microcontrollers is a prime choice. However, when dealing with multiple tasks and complex calculations Eg: laptops and computers, Microprocessor reigns supreme.

Helpful Links

Embedded System Definition

https://www.ibm.com/blog/microcontroller-vs-microprocessor/

Comments

Man In The Middle Attack - EavesDropping in the Digital World

This is a term used to describe a cyber attack where a hacker acts as middleman, during data transfer between user and an application. The app can be a financial or an E commerce website, Software as a Service (SaaS) etc. The hacker can intercept data passed via the browser to the website, and collect sensitive information such as account and credit card details, user login etc. To put it into context, it is like a postman who reads all the letters addressed to you, then reseals the same, on delivery. This way no one suspects a foul play. Interception This is the first phase of the attack. Here the hacker establishes a connection with the target device whether a PC, Laptop or Smart phone. This is done through various methods like Free WiFi : Here a WiFi hot spot is set up which is not password protected. When a user logs in to the network, they are in essence connecting to the hacker's system. Now any data transfer occurs via this co...

Internet of Things-Connection Redefined

Imagine driving home after a long day of work. En route the car instructs the residence to automatically turn on the lights, prepare a hot bath, and download the latest Netflix series. While this may seem like a line from a SciFi script, the future is more realistic than ever. Welcome to the world of IoT or Internet of Things. Though not as popular as its famous counterpart, Artificial Intelligence, its penetration into the consumer market is indeed extensive. What is IoT...... It is the term used to describe a device, or set of devices which are connected to the internet, and also communicate with each other. They can share data obtained from various sensors to a central hub, analyze it using AI, and take appropriate actions. For example, a smart thermostat can read the room temperature, analyze the same, and adjust the heating system without any human intervention. Another example would be a smart camera which provides video footage when a movement is detect...

Bluetooth - You are Connected

We are entering the era of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, where each device connects remotely to one another, and the world wide web. This makes them smart in the way of integration to Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning and Data analysis. There are number of network protocols that facilitate this peer to peer communication be it ZigBee, Matter etc. More on that later. What is Bluetooth Invented in 1994 by Ericsson and widely used, Bluetooth allows for short distance communication, within 10 meter radius. The data speed is between 1 Mbps and 3 Mbps. The bandwidth is in the range of 2.4 GHz to 2.485 GHz. Frequency Hopping Unfold Spectrum This is the underlying tech used in Bluetooth. Data signals by default have low frequency, and high bandwidth. This makes them prone to distortion, affecting long distance transmission. Also the receiving antennas have to be large in size which is a limitation for mobile phone...

Technology

Search This Blog