Tag: Microcontrollers
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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 bits wide (usually 12, 14, or 16 bits) and the instructions occupy one word in…
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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 data also use the same bus. Harvard Architecture Harvard architecture (utilized by PIC microcontrollers) places…
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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 Needed What interfaces are going to be required? For instance, if PWM is needed, you…
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The 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 discussed as follows: The Supply Voltage Most of the microcontrollers you will encounter operate with…
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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. Basically, the microcontroller is capable of storing and running a program. The microcontroller contains a…