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Microprocessor vs Microcontroller

 Difference between a microprocessor and a microcontroller

Microprocessor

  • A silicon chip representing a central processing unit (CPU), which is capable of performing arithmetic as well as logical operations according to a predefined set of instructions.
  • It is a dependent unit. It requires the combination of other chips like timers, program and data memory chips, interrupt controllers, etc. for functioning.
  • Most of the time general purpose in design and operation.
  • Doesn't contain a built in I/O port. The I/O port functionality needs to be implemented with the help of external programmable peripheral interface chips like 8255.
  • Targeted for high end market where performance is important.
  • Limited power saving options compared to microcontrollers.

Microcontroller

  • A microcontroller is a highly integrated chip that contains a CPU, scratchpad RAM, special and general purpose register arrays, on chip ROM/FLASH memory for program storage, timer and interrupt control units and dedicated I/O ports.
  • It is a self-contained unit and it doesn't require external interrupt controller, timer, UART, etc. for its functioning.
  • Mostly application-oriented or domain-specific.
  • Most of the processors contain multiple built-in I/O ports which can be operated as a single 8 or 16 or 32 bit port or as individual port pins.
  • Targeted for embedded market where performance is not so critical (At present this demarcation is invalid).
  • Includes lot of power saving features.

Diagram

 

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