- Microprocessor is a single chip CPU, microcontroller contains, a CPU and much of the remaining circuitry of a complete microcomputer system in a single chip.
- Microcontroller includes RAM, ROM, serial and parallel interface, timer, interrupt schedule circuitry (in addition to CPU) in a single chip.
–RAM is smaller than that of even an ordinary microcomputer, but enough for its applications.
–Interrupt system is an important feature, as microcontrollers have to respond to control oriented devices in real time. E.g., opening of microwave oven’s door cause an interrupt to stop the operation. (Most microprocessors can also implement powerful interrupt schemes, but external components are usually needed).
- Microprocessors are most commonly used as the CPU in microcomputer systems. Microcontrollers are used in small, minimum component designs performing control-oriented activities.
- Microprocessor instruction sets are “processing intensive”, implying powerful addressing modes with instructions catering to large volumes of data. Their instructions operate on nibbles, bytes, etc. Microcontrollers have instruction sets catering to the control of inputs and outputs. Their instructions operate also on a single bit. E.g., a motor may be turned ON and OFF by a 1-bit output port.
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