As the name suggests, Microprocessor is a computer processor where the data processing logic and control are included in a [1] 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 figure1 shown below unit in which the number of peripherals is fabricated on a single chip. It is often considered as the heart of the computer system.

Figure 1: Microprocessor and Microcontrollers

A Microcontroller is a small [2] and low-cost microcomputer, which is designed to perform the specific tasks of embedded systems like displaying microwave information, receiving remote signals etc.

The general microcontroller consists of the processor, the memory (RAM, ROM, EPROM), Serial ports, peripherals (timers, counters) etc.

Microprocessor

1. It is a mini-computer capable of performing a task on its own. Examples: 8051, 8951 etc.
2. It has necessary peripherals inside the chip like RAM, ROM, etc that is why it is called SoC (system on chip). The functional units are registers, CU, ALU, RAM, ROM, IO Ports, DAC, ADC, Counters and Timers.
3. It is used in the embedded system and specific applications.
4. It is used in compact devices [3] because it does not need external components.
5. Due to a few numbers of external components, the power consumption is very low. Thus it can be powered using batteries.
6. It has an internal fixed amount of memory that cannot be upgraded.
7. Due to on-chip flash and memory, they are fast in loading the program and instructions. Hence fast execution at startup.
8. The microcontroller also has a power-saving system for the idle condition that decreases the power consumption
9. Its processing speed is 8Mhz to 50Mhz. thus it cannot be used for complex tasks.
10. The MCU can support upto 720p High-definition video.

Microcontrollers

1. It is the central processing unit of the computer. Examples: 8085, 8086 etc.
2. It needs external RAM, ROM to perform a task. The functional units are registers, CU and ALU etc.
3. It is used in computers as it is the brain of a computer
4. It needs external components thus the devices made it are bulkier.
5. The external components require extra power to perform. Thus they are not suitable to run on batteries.
6. The external memory is upgradeable and can be easily varied to meet the task.
7. Due to external memory, the programs take some time to load which makes it relatively slow.
8. The microprocessors do not have the power-saving function, they consume energy in idle condition.
9. While the microprocessor processing speed is above 1Ghz. It can perform complex tasks.
10. It can support above 720p high-definition video.

References:

1. https://www.tutorialspoint.com/difference-between-microprocessor-and-microcontroller
2. https://www.tutorialspoint.com/differences-in-microcomputer-microprocessor-and-microcontroller
3. https://www.electricaltechnology.org/2020/01/difference-between-microprocessor-microcontroller.html

Cite this article:

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