A simulator is software that runs on a PC and allows the microcontroller code to be simulated (run) on the PC. Many programming errors can be identified and corrected during simulation.
An emulator is hardware that connects a PC to the microcontroller in a prototype mechatronic system. It typically consists of a printed circuit board connected to the mechatronic system through ribbon cables. The emulator can be used to load and run a program on the actual microcontroller that is attached to the mechatronic system hardware (containing sensors, actuators, and control circuits). The emulator allows the PC to monitor and control the operation of the microcontroller while it is embedded in the mechatronic system.
Also read: Software Development Tools for a Microcontroller Programmer
Related Resource: Beginning C for Microcontrollers: Making Electronics Dance with Software
