A microcontroller is a small, low-cost microcomputer designed to perform specific tasks in embedded systems like displaying information on a microwave or receiving remote signals. It consists of a processor, memory like RAM and ROM, serial ports, and peripherals like timers and counters. Microcontrollers are used for single tasks in applications, have low design and hardware costs, and are easy to replace. They use CMOS technology requiring less power and include a CPU, RAM, ROM, and I/O ports. In contrast, microprocessors are used for larger applications, have higher costs, and are not as replaceable.

1. Microcontrollers - Overview
A microcontroller is a small and low-cost
microcomputer, which is designed to perform
the specific tasks of embedded systems like
displaying microwave’s information, receiving
remote signals, etc.
The general microcontroller consists of the
processor, the memory (RAM, ROM, EPROM),
Serial ports, peripherals (timers, counters), etc.

2. Difference between Microprocessor and Microcontroller
Microcontrollers are used to
execute a single task within an
application.
Its designing and hardware cost
is low.
Easy to replace.
It is built with CMOS
technology, which requires less
power to operate.
It consists of CPU, RAM, ROM,
I/O ports.
Microprocessors are used for big
applications.
Its designing and hardware cost is
high.
Not so easy to replace.
Its power consumption is high
because it has to control the
entire system.
It doesn’t consist of RAM,
ROM, I/O ports. It uses its pins to
interface to peripheral devices.