What is the difference between microcontroller and microprocessor?
Microcontrollers and microprocessors are fundamental components in the world of computing and electronics. They serve as the brains of various devices and systems, but they have distinct characteristics and are designed for different purposes. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between microcontrollers and microprocessors, exploring their architecture, applications, and functionality. Architecture Microcontroller: Microcontrollers are designed as compact, self-contained computing systems. They typically include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and various peripheral components, all integrated on a single chip. The CPU in microcontrollers is generally of the RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) type, which simplifies instruction execution for efficiency. Microcontrollers often feature on-chip timers, counters, and I/O ports, making them well-suited for real-time control applications. Microproc...