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What are microcontrollers and microcomputers? 


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Microcontrollers and microcomputers are computer systems that include a microprocessor, program memory, data memory, and input/output (I/O) components. Microcontrollers are general-purpose microprocessors with additional parts that allow them to control external devices. They receive data from external devices, manipulate it, and send it to external output devices. Microcontrollers are classified by the number of bits in a data word, with 8-bit microcontrollers being common. PIC microcontrollers, such as the PIC16F84, are popular due to their simple architectures, low cost, and ease of programming . Microcomputers, on the other hand, refer to systems that include a microprocessor packaged on a printed circuit board with other components, such as interface and memory chips. They are also known as single-board computers and are used for primary computation and system control operations .

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Papers (4)Insight
Microcontrollers are single-chip computers that perform various functions, while microcomputers are assemblies of microprocessors with other components like memory and interface chips.
Book ChapterDOI
01 Jan 2002
1 Citations
Microcontrollers are general purpose microprocessors with additional parts to control external devices. Microcomputers are systems that include a microprocessor, program memory, data memory, and I/O.
Open accessBook
03 Jul 2018
21 Citations
Microcontrollers and microcomputers are discussed in the book "Microprocessors and Microcontrollers" as part of the broader topic of microprocessors.
Open accessBook
17 Jan 2011
13 Citations
Microcontrollers and microcomputers are discussed in the book "Microprocessors and Microcontrollers" as part of its comprehensive coverage of the subject.

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