Microcontrollers

Microcontrollers are very small computing devices that have limited capability and are usually intended for a specific function. This is in contrast to general computing devices that have broad capabilities and can be programmed to do almost any computing task. Microcontrollers generally have low processing power and small memories, since they are meant for simpler tasks and then can be designed to consume less power and cost less.

Microcontrollers are generally embedded in the appliances or machines that they are designed to control. They take control inputs from the user or sensor data from the appliance or machine they are embedded in. They then process the input data and send control signals to the same or other appliances, machines, or components.

Some examples:

• The microcontroller inside a television takes input from the remote control and controls components such as the channel selector, the speaker system, and the screen.
• The microcontroller in a car takes input from sensors in the engine, such as the engine rotation and speed of the car, and controls the fuel mix and spark plug timing to optimize the conversion of engine power to motion.
• The microcontroller in a microwave oven takes user inputs from a keypad, displays temperature and time information on a display, and controls components of the microwave, including the radiation and heating elements.

Such embedded microcontrollers are generally subjected to harsher conditions than typical computers. They are therefore designed and built to be rugged and robust, in addition, to being compact so they can be embedded without needing too much space.