Unit-I_Lecture-1.pptx Lecture notes and diagrams

MICROCONTROLLER
BASED SYSTEM DESIGN
Unit-I : Introduction to Microcomputer

24/01/2025 Microcontroller Based System Design 2
Learning Objectives
By the end of the class, students will be able to:
1. Understand the significance and history of
microcomputer technology.
2. Describe the basic functions of microcomputer control.

Outline
• Introduction
• Significance of Microcomputer Technology
• History of Microcomputer Technology
• Basic Function of Microcomputer Control

Introducti
on

Introduction: Understanding
Microcomputers
What is a Microcomputer?
• A microcomputer is a small, versatile computing device that
uses a microprocessor as its central processing unit (CPU).
• These systems are designed for individual use, typically
integrating other key components like memory, input/output
interfaces, and storage within a compact unit.
• Breakdown of the Term:
 “Micro” refers to the small size of the processor.
 “Computer” implies a system capable of processing
data, running programs, and solving problems.

Microcomputers
• Key Characteristics:
 Compact and portable compared to earlier computers
(mainframes and minicomputers).
 Affordable, making computing accessible to the masses.
 Flexible, as they can be programmed for a variety of
applications.
• Examples of Microcomputers:
 Personal Computers (PCs): Desktops and laptops.
 Embedded Systems: Found in microwaves, washing machines,
and automobiles.
 Development Boards: Raspberry Pi and Arduino.

Microcomputers

Microcomputers
Why Study Microcomputers?
• Microcomputers are a cornerstone of modern technology.
They power the devices we use every day and play a critical
role in advancing industries.
• Relevance Today:
 They are used in homes, offices, healthcare, and industries
for applications like communication, data processing, and
automation.
 Microcomputers enable advancements in fields like
Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics.

Microcomputers
Evolution of Computing Systems
• Early Computers (1940s-1960s):
 ENIAC (1945): One of the first electronic general-purpose
computers, occupying entire rooms.
 Mainframes were large, expensive, and used primarily by
governments and large organizations.
• Minicomputers (1960s-1970s):
 Smaller and cheaper than mainframes but still too expensive
for individuals.
 Used in small organizations and for specific applications like
engineering.

Microcomputers
• Birth of Microcomputers (1970s):
 The development of microprocessors like the Intel 4004 in
1971 revolutionized computing.
 Introduction of personal computers like the Altair 8800
(1975) and Apple I (1976).
• Modern Microcomputers:
 Today’s microcomputers include powerful devices like
laptops, smartphones, and IoT platforms.
 They are more compact, efficient, and powerful, catering to
diverse needs like gaming, automation, and AI applications.

Significance of
Microcomputer
Technology

Significance of Microcomputer
Technology
Revolution in Computing
• Transition from Large Systems:
 Early computers were massive, expensive, and accessible only to
large organizations. Microcomputers brought computing power to
small businesses, schools, and homes.
• Cost-Effectiveness:
 The development of microcomputers made computers affordable
and led to widespread adoption.
• Versatility:
 Microcomputers can be used for general-purpose tasks like word
processing, gaming, and browsing, or specialized applications like
robotics and IoT.

Significance of Microcomputer
Technology
Impact on Society
• Accessibility:
 Microcomputers democratized access to technology, enabling
individuals from various backgrounds to leverage computing
power.
• Advancements in Technology:
 Enabled the development of software and operating systems that
support modern computing, like Microsoft Windows and Linux.
• Integration into Modern Life:
 Microcomputers are at the heart of smartphones, IoT devices,
smart TVs, and even cars, enhancing convenience and efficiency
in everyday life.

History of
Microcomputer
Technology

History of Microcomputer Technology
Early Development (1970s)
• The Birth of Microprocessors:
 Intel 4004 (1971): The first commercially available
microprocessor, designed for calculators.
 Intel 8080 (1974): A powerful microprocessor that formed the
foundation of early personal computers.
• First Personal Computers:
 Altair 8800 (1975): Often considered the first successful
personal computer.
 Apple I (1976): Developed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak,
introducing the concept of user-friendly personal computers.

Evolution in the 1980s
• IBM PC (1981):
 Standardized personal computing and introduced the x86
architecture, which still dominates today.
• Home Computing Boom:
 Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum made computing fun and
accessible, especially for gaming and education.
• Rise of Software Ecosystems:
 Operating systems like MS-DOS and graphical interfaces
like Windows emerged, enhancing usability.

Modern Developments
• Compact and Powerful Microcomputers:
 Platforms like Raspberry Pi and Arduino brought
computing and control to enthusiasts and industries.
• Integration into Modern Devices:
 Microcomputers now power IoT devices, smart
appliances, wearable technology, and autonomous
systems.

Basic Function of
Microcomputer
Control

Basic Function of Microcomputer
Control
Key Components
1. Microprocessor (CPU)
2. Memory (RAM and ROM)
3. Input/Output Interfaces
4. Storage (HDD, SSD, or Flash Memory)
Control Functions
5. Data Processing
6. Communication
7. Automation

Control

Control (Key Components)
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• The “brain” of the microcomputer.
• Executes instructions from programs and processes data.
• Comprised of:
 Control Unit (CU): Directs operations of the microcomputer.
 Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and
logical operations.

Memory
• RAM (Random Access Memory):
 Temporary storage for active processes.
 Volatile – loses data when power is off.
 Example: Running multiple applications
simultaneously.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory):
 Stores permanent instructions (firmware).
 Non-volatile – retains data even when power is off.

Input and Output (I/O) Interfaces
• Facilitates communication between the user and the
microcomputer.
 Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, sensors.
 Output Devices: Monitor, speakers, actuators.
Storage
• Long-term data storage using hard drives, SSDs, or flash
memory.

System Bus:
• Transfers data between components.
 Data Bus: Carries actual data.
 Address Bus: Specifies memory locations.
 Control Bus: Coordinates control signals.

Control

Control (Control Functions)
Data Processing
• How It Works:
 CPU fetches data from memory.
 Performs computations (arithmetic or logic).
 Sends results to output or stores them back in memory.
• Example:
 Processing user input in a word processor and displaying the
edited text.

Communication
• Internal Communication: Between the CPU, memory, and
peripherals via the system bus.
• External Communication: Using ports like USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi.
• Example:
 Sending a print command to a printer or transferring files to a
USB drive.

Automation
• Microcomputers automate processes by executing predefined
instructions.
• Example:
 A microcontroller in a washing machine cycles through wash,
rinse, and spin functions automatically.
 An industrial robot performing repetitive tasks.

Monitoring and Feedback
• Monitors inputs from sensors, processes the data, and provides
feedback or control.
• Example:
 A thermostat adjusting the temperature based on room
conditions.
 A car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) responding to wheel
slippage.

Decision Making
• Microcomputers use programmed logic to make decisions.
• Example:
 An irrigation system deciding when to water crops based on
soil moisture data.

Unit-I_Lecture-1.pptx Lecture notes and diagrams

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