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Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of the address bus in a microcontroller?
What is the purpose of the address bus in a microcontroller?
What happens when a microcontroller program fails to refresh the watchdog timer?
What happens when a microcontroller program fails to refresh the watchdog timer?
What is the role of Flash EEPROM in a microcontroller?
What is the role of Flash EEPROM in a microcontroller?
How does Serial Communication benefit a microcontroller?
How does Serial Communication benefit a microcontroller?
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When would an Analog Comparator be used in a microcontroller?
When would an Analog Comparator be used in a microcontroller?
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What components are integrated onto a single chip in a microcontroller?
What components are integrated onto a single chip in a microcontroller?
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What is the significance of the prefix 'MICRO' in 'microcontroller'?
What is the significance of the prefix 'MICRO' in 'microcontroller'?
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What type of module allows a microcontroller to perform tasks for certain time periods?
What type of module allows a microcontroller to perform tasks for certain time periods?
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What does ADC stand for in the context of a microcontroller?
What does ADC stand for in the context of a microcontroller?
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Which component of the microcontroller traditionally serves as memory locations?
Which component of the microcontroller traditionally serves as memory locations?
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Study Notes
Microcontroller Overview
- A microcontroller is a single chip that integrates a microprocessor system, requiring only power and clocking.
- The term "micro" comes from the Greek word "Micros", meaning small in size, quantity, number, and dignity.
Components of a Microcontroller
- A microcontroller combines the CPU core, memory (ROM and RAM), and parallel digital I/O on a single chip.
- Other components often included are:
- Timer module
- Serial I/O
- Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
- Analog Comparator
CPU Core
- The CPU core is the heart of the microcontroller.
- Traditionally based on an 8-bit microprocessor unit.
- Registers serve as memory locations, enabling mathematical operations and data processing.
Memory
- Memory is responsible for storing data.
- Types of memory:
- Volatile RAM (Random Access Memory)
- Non-Volatile ROM (Read Only Memory)
- EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
- EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
- Flash EEPROM
Bus
- A bus represents a group of wires (8, 16, or more) that connect blocks inside the microcontroller.
- Two types of buses:
- Address bus: transmits addresses from CPU to memory.
- Data bus: transmits data, as wide as the data (8 bits, etc.).
Timer Unit
- A timer unit is a counter driven by an external clock pulse or the microcontroller's internal oscillator.
- Watchdog timer: a timer that is refreshed by the user program, resetting if not refreshed.
Serial Communication
- Serial communication (RS232) enables microcontrollers to connect to other microcontrollers or PCs using a serial cable.
Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
- An ADC converts analog signals (e.g., voltage) to digital form for microcontroller processing.
Analog Comparator
- Analog comparators are used to compare two analog voltages.
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Description
Explore the components and functions of microcontrollers, such as integrating CPU core, memory, and digital I/O on a single chip. Learn about the origin of the term 'microcontroller' and its significance in modern technology.
