Difference Between Microprocessor and Microcontroller

Are you also confused between Microprocessor and Microcontroller and are wondering what is the difference between them? If yes, then don't worry because this article is for you. In this article, we will discuss what is a microcontroller, what is a microprocessor, and what is the difference between these two.

So, let's get started.

What is Microprocessor?

As the name suggests, Microprocessor is a computer processor where the data processing logic and control are included in a single IC. In simple terms, it can be defined as a controlling unit of a micro-computer where everything is wrapped inside a single chip or IC. A microprocessor is often termed as a central processing unit in which the number of peripherals is fabricated on a single chip. It is often considered as the heart of the Computer system.

History of Microprocessor

This is the evolution of microprocessor according to the generations:

• The first generation Microprocessor 4004 was first invented by Intel in 1971. It has the ability to run at a clock speed of 108 kHz.
• The second-generation 8-bit microprocessors came from 1973 to 1978. INTEL-8085 and Zilog's-Z80 are some of the examples of the second-generation 8-bit microprocessor.
• In 1978, Intel released 8086, the first 16-bit microprocessor.
• In the early 80s, the fourth-generation 32-bit processors were released by Intel.
• The fifth-generation 64-bit processors were released by Intel in 1995. From 1995 until now these 64-bit processors are used for high-performance and high-speed processors.

Block Diagram of Microprocessor:

Features of Microprocessor:

These are the following important features of a Microprocessor:

• High Speed: A microprocessor has the ability to execute millions of instructions per second. As a result, they can work at a very high speed.
• Low Cost: Because of the integrated circuit technology, the overall cost of the microprocessors is reduced.
• Reliable: As the microprocessors use semiconductor technology, so the chances of failure are very less. Hence, the microprocessors are very reliable.
• Portable: Because of the small size and low power consumption, the microprocessors are portable.
• Versatile: As the microprocessors can be used for various purposes, so it is considered as versatile.
• Small size: Because of very large scale and ultra large scale integration technology, the size is reduced.

Application of Microprocessor:

These are the following application of microprocessor:

• Calculators
• Traffic light
• Control data
• Accounting system
• Games machine

What is a Microcontroller?

As the name suggests, a Microcontroller is a small computer on a single MOS or IC. It consists of multiple CPUs with programmable input/output peripherals. A microcontroller is often considered the heart of an embedded system.

History of MicroController:

This is the evolution of the microcontroller:

• The first microcontroller Intel 8048 was invented by Intel Corporation in 1975.
• In 1993, EEPROM was first introduced.
• Again in 1993, Atmel introduced the first microcontroller using Flash memory.

Block Diagram of Microcontroller:

Features of MicroController:

These are the following important features of a microcontroller:

• Small Size: A microcontroller is more compact in size.
• Efficiency: A microcontroller is more efficient because of its compact size.
• Clock speed: The clock speed of the microcontroller is less.
• Structure: The structure of a microcontroller is fixed.
• Power Consumption: The power consumption for the microcontroller is less.

Application of MicroController:

These are the following application of microcontroller:

• Keyboard controllers
• Mobile phones
• Microwave oven
• Automobiles
• Watches
• Cameras

Difference Between Microprocessor and Microcontroller:

These are the following key difference between microprocessor and microcontroller:

Major Difference between Microprocessor and Microcontroller

• Microcontrollers are typically less expensive than microprocessors. Typically, microprocessors are designed for use with more expensive devices. They are also considerably more complex than microcontrollers because they are designed to perform a variety of computational tasks, whereas microcontrollers typically perform a single function. With a microcontroller, engineers write and compile application-specific code before uploading it to the microcontroller, which contains all of the necessary computing features and components to execute the code.
• There is a significant difference between clock speeds. This relates back to the notion that microcontrollers are designed to handle a particular task or application, whereas microprocessors are designed for more complex, robust, and unpredictable computing tasks. That entails employing the exact amount of speed and strength necessary to complete the task – neither more nor less. Consequently, many microprocessors clock at speeds of up to 4 GHz, whereas microcontrollers can operate at speeds of 200 MHz or less.
• Microcontrollers' low power consumption is one of their most significant advantages. A computer processor performing a dedicated task requires less speed and, consequently, less power than one with robust computational capacity. Power consumption plays a crucial role in implementation design: a processor that consumes a great deal of power may need to be plugged in or supported by an external power supply, whereas a processor that consumes little power could be powered for an extended period of time by a small battery.

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