MPLAB X IDE
The MPLAB X IDE is the integrated development environment that enables the user to create a source file, edit, compile, simulate, debug, and send the generated code to the target microcontroller with the help of a compatible … Read More
Classifications of Embedded Systems
Embedded systems can be classified into three types:
- Small scale embedded systems.
- Medium scale embedded systems.
- Sophisticated embedded systems.
Small Scale Embedded Systems
These are systems that are designed with a single 8-bit or 16-bit microcontroller. They have small hardware … Read More
Embedded Processor vs. Embedded Microcontroller
An embedded processor is a processor with special features that allow it to embed multiple processes into the system. Applications like real time image processing and aerodynamics require fast, precise and intensive calculations where fast context switching from one program … Read More
Embedded System-On-Chip (SoC)
System-on-chip (SoC) is a system on VLSI chip that has all the required analog as well as digital circuits, processors and software.
At the heart of most SoC designs are an embedded proprietary RISC processor and a block of RAM … Read More
Features of an Embedded System
An embedded system can defined as a system that has embedded software and computer-hardware, which makes it a system dedicated for an application (s) or specific part of an application or product or a part of a larger system.
An … Read More
RISC vs. CISC Processors
Both reduced instruction set computer (RISC) and complex instruction set computer (CISC) refer to the instruction set of a microcontroller.
RISC Processors
In an 8-bit RISC microcontroller, data is 8 bits wide but the instruction words are more than 8 … Read More
Microcontroller Architectures
Two types of architectures are standard in microcontrollers, that is, Von Neumann and Harvard architectures.
Von Neumann Architecture
Von Neumann architecture is used by a large percentage of microcontrollers. It places all memory space on the same bus; instruction and … Read More
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Microcontroller
When selecting a microcontroller we have basic factors you need to put into consideration, as stated below:
The Number of Input/output Pins
Find out the number of input/output pins that are going to be required for the application.
The Interfaces
… Read MoreThe Essential Features of Microcontrollers
We have different types of microcontrollers from different manufacturers characterized by different architectures and capabilities. Some may suit a specific application while others may be totally inappropriate for the same application.
Some of the common features of most microcontrollers are … Read More
What is a Microcontroller?
A microcontroller is a single-chip computer, that is, the entire computer system lies within the confines of the integrated circuit (IC) chip. The microcontroller on the encapsulated sliver of silicon has features similar to those of a standard personal computer. … Read More