Introduction of Microcontroller

A microcontroller (sometimes abbreviated µC, uC or MCU) is a small computer on a single integrated circuit containing a processor core, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals. Program memory in the form of NOR Flash or OTP ROM  is also often included on chip, as well as a typically small amount of RAM. Microcontrollers are designed for embedded applications, in contrast to the microprocessors used in personal computers or other general purpose applications.

1) A microcontroller basically contains one or more following components:

• Central processing unit(CPU)
• Random Access Memory)(RAM)
• Read Only Memory(ROM)
• Input/output ports
• Timers and Counters
• Interrupt Controls
• Analog to digital converters
• Digital  analog converters
• Serial interfacing ports
• Oscillatory circuits

2) A microcontroller internally consists of all features required for a computing system and functions as a computer without adding any external digital parts in it.

3) Most of the pins in the microcontroller chip can be made programmable by the user.

4) A microcontroller has many bit handling instructions that can be easily understood by the programmer.

5) A microcontroller is capable of handling Boolean functions.

6) Higher speed and performance.

7) On-chip ROM structure in a microcontroller provides better firmware security.

8 ) Easy to design with low cost and small size.