What is a Microprocessor (MPU)?

A microprocessor is essentially the brain of a computer system—it is a central processing unit (CPU) on a single integrated chip. However, it lacks memory, input/output ports, and other peripherals, which need to be added externally.

Figure 1. Microprocessor vs Microcontroller: Key Differences Explained.

What is a Microcontroller (MCU)?

A microcontroller is a complete embedded system on a single chip. It contains a CPU along with memory (RAM, ROM), I/O ports, timers, and sometimes even communication modules and ADCs—all integrated. Figure 1 shows Microprocessor vs Microcontroller: Key Differences Explained.

Internal Architecture and Components

Microprocessor:

• Contains only the CPU
• Needs external components:
• RAM (temporary memory)
• ROM (program storage)
• Timers and other peripherals

Microcontroller:

• All components are built-in:
• CPU + RAM + ROM
• Input/Output ports
• Timers, ADC (Analog to Digital Converter), DAC
• Serial and parallel communication interfaces

Design and Development Complexity

microprocessor:

• Requires complex hardware design
• Usually needs an Operating System (OS) like Windows or Linux
• Greater flexibility and scalability

microcontroller:

• Requires simpler design
• Can run without an OS (bare-metal)
• Easier to develop and deploy for embedded systems

Usage and Applications

Microprocessor Applications:

General-purpose computing

Used in:

• Personal computers (PCs)
• Laptops
• Servers
• High-performance systems

Reference:

1. https://www.electromaker.io/blog/article/microcontroller-or-microprocessor-which-is-right-for-your-new-product?srsltid=AfmBOoofyuRI_SfDTjazFfv4itajYhVUoodQ38HPeq7WOQURhRCZi2ym&utm_source=chatgpt.com

Cite this article:

Nandhinidwaraka S (2021), Difference Between Microprocessor and Microcontrollers, AnaTechMaz, pp. 38