Lesson 1

1. Dr. Wesam Al-Zubaedi
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The Programming Languages that Used in
Microprocessor and Microcontrollers

2. Outlines
• Introduction
• Assembly Language
• C Language
• C++ Language
• Python (MicroPython)
• Embedded-Specific Languages
• Java (for select microprocessors)
• Scripting Languages (e.g., Lua, JavaScript)
• Conclusion
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3. Objective:
• The objective of this task is to explore, experiment with, and
compare various programming languages commonly used in
microcontroller and microprocessor development.
• By working with different languages on a microcontroller
development platform, you will gain practical experience and
insights into their suitability for embedded systems projects.
• This hands-on exploration will help you understand the
strengths, weaknesses, and trade-offs associated with each
language, allowing you to make informed decisions when
selecting a language for specific embedded applications.
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4. Introduction
• Microprocessors and microcontrollers are integral components of
embedded systems, and they require specialized programming to
perform tasks and control hardware.
• In this lecture, we will explore the programming languages
commonly used in microprocessor and microcontroller
development and understand their significance in embedded
systems.
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5. • 1. Assembly Language:
• Assembly language is a low-level programming language specific to
a particular microprocessor or microcontroller architecture.
• It uses mnemonic codes to represent machine-level instructions,
making it a direct interface with the hardware.
• Assembly language provides precise control over the hardware,
making it suitable for tasks requiring optimization and real-time
operations.
• Programmers often use assembly language when developing
critical parts of embedded systems.
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6. • 2. C Language:
• C is one of the most widely used high-level programming
languages for microcontroller and microprocessor programming.
• It strikes a balance between low-level hardware control and high-
level abstraction, making it versatile and efficient.
• C programs can be compiled into machine code for specific
microcontrollers, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
• Numerous libraries and development tools are available for C,
making it a preferred choice for embedded systems.
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7. • 3. C++ Language:
• C++ is an extension of the C language, offering object-oriented
programming features.
• While C++ is less commonly used in microcontroller programming
due to its relatively larger code size, it can be employed when
object-oriented design benefits the project.
• Some microcontroller platforms support C++ development.
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8. • 4. Python (MicroPython):
• Python, known for its simplicity and readability, is gaining
popularity in the world of microcontrollers.
• MicroPython is a variant designed for microcontrollers, providing a
higher-level syntax.
• It offers rapid development capabilities but may be less efficient in
terms of execution speed and memory usage.
• Python is suitable for projects where development speed and ease
of use are prioritized over low-level control.
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9. • 5. Embedded-Specific Languages:
• Some microcontrollers and microprocessors have dedicated
languages or development environments.
• For instance, Arduino uses a simplified language based on C/C++,
while Raspberry Pi can be programmed using Python.
• These environments aim to be beginner-friendly but may have
limitations in terms of low-level control compared to pure C or
assembly.
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10. • 7. Scripting Languages (e.g., Lua, JavaScript):
• Some microcontroller platforms support scripting languages like
Lua and JavaScript for rapid prototyping and development.
• These languages may not be as resource-efficient as C or assembly
but can be beneficial for certain applications.
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11. Conclusion:
• The choice of programming language for microprocessors and
microcontrollers depends on factors such as the hardware
architecture, project requirements, developer expertise, and
performance constraints.
• Each language has its strengths and weaknesses, and selecting the
right one is crucial for optimizing embedded system development.
• Ultimately, the goal is to write efficient, reliable, and maintainable
code that harnesses the capabilities of microprocessors and
microcontrollers in various embedded applications.
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25. Learning Objective