MICROCONTROLLER

MODULE 1

Prepared by:
JERRINEIL A. DAANOY
MIE- ELT 2A
INTRODUCTION

This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided and
independent learning at your own pace and time. You will have the opportunity to demonstrates an
understanding of the basic concepts and underlying theories in basic microcontroller

For the facilitator

Welcome to Electrical Technology Self-Learning-Module on Basic microcontroller

This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided and independent learning
activities at their own pace and time. Furthermore, this also aims to help students acquire the needed
21st century skills while taking into consideration their needs and circumstances.
As a facilitator, you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this module. You also need
to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing them to manage their own learning. Furthermore,
you are expected to encourage and assist the learners as they do the tasks included in the module.

For the learner

Welcome to Electrical Technology Self-Learning-Module on Basic microcontroller

This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided and
independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be enabled to process the contents of the
learning resource while being an active learner.

MICROCONTROLLER

LEARNING TOPIC
 Microcontroller (MCU) vs. a Microprocessor (MPU)
 Introduction to Arduino (Atmel AVR), STM32 (ARM Cortex-M), PIC (Microchip), ESP8266/32
 Basic block diagram of a microcontroller (CPU, Memory (Flash, SRAM, EEPROM), I/O Ports, Clock,
peripherals
 Where and why are microcontrollers used? (From toys to cars to appliances)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this module, students are expected to:

 Describe and review Microcontroller (MCU) vs. a Microprocessor (MPU),

 Define Arduino (Atmel AVR), STM32 (ARM Cortex-M), PIC (Microchip), ESP8266/32,
 Differentiate Basic block diagram of a microcontroller (CPU, Memory (Flash, SRAM, EEPROM), I/O
ports, Clock, peripherals
 Appreciate Where and why are microcontrollers used,
 Perform the self-learning activity task.

Module 1: Introduction to the World of Microcontrollers

A microcontroller is a compact, single-chip computer used to control specific functions of electronic devices. It
includes a central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM and ROM), and input/output (I/O) ports, all integrated
into one small chip. Microcontrollers are designed for embedded systems, where they perform one or more
dedicated tasks like sensing, processing, and controlling. They are used in devices such as washing machines,
microwave ovens, remote controls, and cars. Because of their low cost, small size, and energy efficiency,
microcontrollers are widely used in everyday electronics.
A microprocessor (MPU) is the central unit of a computer system that performs all the processing tasks. It is a
single chip that contains the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), control unit, and registers. Unlike a microcontroller, a
microprocessor does not have built-in memory or input/output ports—it needs external components to work.
Microprocessors are designed for general-purpose computing, such as running applications in personal
computers, laptops, and servers. They are powerful, fast, and capable of handling complex tasks, including
multitasking and large data processing.
Microcontroller vs Microprocessor

Feature Microcontroller (MCU) Microprocessor (MPU)

On-chip
RAM and ROM are built-in on the chip RAM and ROM are external components
RAM/ROM

Includes built-in peripherals like timers,

Peripherals No built-in peripherals; needs external devices
ADCs, I/O ports

Power Low power consumption; ideal for battery- High power consumption; needs cooling in
Consumption powered devices high-end systems

Cost Low cost due to integrated components High cost due to need for external parts

B.
Five Common MCU Families

MCU Family Manufacturer Key Features / Use Cases

AVR Atmel (now Microchip) 8-bit microcontrollers, used in Arduino boards, great for beginners.

PIC Microchip Technology 8, 16, and 32-bit MCUs; popular for industrial and educational use.

32-bit ARM Cortex-M series; powerful and used in robotics, IoT,

STM32 STMicroelectronics
automation.

16-bit ultra-low-power MCUs; ideal for battery-powered and wearable

MSP430 Texas Instruments
devices.

32-bit MCU with built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth; widely used in IoT and smart
ESP32 Espressif Systems
devices.

Common Microcontroller Families Overview

MCU Family Manufacturer Description Key Features

- 8-bit AVR (e.g.,

ATmega328P)
Arduino boards use AVR microcontrollers (like - Easy-to-use IDE
Arduino Atmel (now part of ATmega328P). They are open-source, beginner- - Extensive community
(Atmel AVR) Microchip) friendly platforms used for DIY and educational support
projects. - Low power

STM32 (ARM STMicroelectronics A powerful family of 32-bit ARM Cortex-M - 32-bit ARM Cortex-
MCU Family Manufacturer Description Key Features

M0/M3/M4/M7
- High-speed
microcontrollers used in professional and
Cortex-M) processing
industrial-grade embedded systems.
- Rich peripherals
- Real-time apps

- 8/16/32-bit options
- Reliable and
A widely-used MCU family ranging from 8-bit to
affordable
PIC Microchip Technology 32-bit. Common in industrial, automotive, and
- MPLAB X IDE
consumer applications.
support
- Large product range

- 32-bit Xtensa
(ESP8266) or RISC-V
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled MCUs popular in IoT (ESP32-C)
ESP8266 /
Espressif Systems and smart home applications. ESP32 is more - Built-in Wi-Fi &
ESP32
powerful than ESP8266. Bluetooth
- Dual-core (ESP32)
- Low cost

Basic Block Diagram of Microcontroller (MCU) represented in a table format, breaking down the major
components and their functions:

Block Component Function / Description

Central Processing Unit ALU, Control Unit, Executes instructions, processes data, and controls other
(CPU) Registers MCU components.

Memory Flash Memory Non-volatile memory to store the program code (firmware).

Volatile memory used for temporary data storage during

SRAM (Static RAM)
program execution.

Non-volatile memory used for storing user data that must

EEPROM
be retained after power off.

Clock System Oscillator, Clock Generator Provides timing signals to synchronize MCU operations.

GPIO (General Purpose Interface for digital input and output operations with
I/O Ports
I/O) external devices.

Used for time-based tasks like delays, event counting, or

Peripherals Timers/Counters
waveform generation.

ADC (Analog to Digital

Converts analog signals to digital values.
Converter)

DAC (Digital to Analog

Converts digital values to analog signals (if available).
Converter)
Block Component Function / Description

Serial communication interface (Universal Asynchronous

USART/UART
Receiver/Transmitter).

Synchronous communication interfaces for peripherals like

SPI/I²C
sensors, displays, etc.

PWM (Pulse Width

Used for motor control, LED dimming, etc.
Modulation)

Reset Circuit, Watchdog

System Control Ensures MCU reliability and recovery from faults.
Timer

Voltage Regulators, Power

Power Management Manages power usage, supports sleep/low-power modes.
Modes

What Are Embedded Systems?

An embedded system is a specialized computer system combining hardware (like a microcontroller), software
(firmware), and input/output interfaces to perform a dedicated function within a larger system. These systems
are typically designed for a specific task rather than general-purpose computing.
Why Are Microcontrollers Used?
A microcontroller is ideal for embedded systems because it provides a compact, integrated package—
processor, memory, and I/O peripherals—all on a single chip. This combination makes them cost-effective,
energy-efficient, and reliable, especially for simple, repetitive, or real-time tasks.
Key strengths:
 Low cost—mass-produced and inexpensive
 Small size and low power consumption—great for portable, battery-powered devices
 ⏱ Real-time response—critical in safety or control systems
 Integration—simplicity by combining necessary components into one chip

Where Are They Used?

Microcontrollers are everywhere—embedded into countless devices to control, monitor, or automate tasks.
Here's a breakdown by category:
1. Toys & Hobbyist Gadgets
 Many toys contain microcontrollers for basic functions like movement, lights, and sounds.
 A classic example: the TI TMS1000 microcontroller powered toys like Speak & Spell, the Big Trak
robot, and the electronic game Simon in the 1970s.
2. Household Appliances
Microcontrollers automate and enhance daily chores:
 Microwave ovens: Control cooking time, power levels, turntable, and safety interlocks like the door
sensor.
 Washing machines: Manage water levels, spinning, cycle duration, and even adapt based on load size
or dirt level.
 Refrigerators, air conditioners, microwaves: Use microcontrollers to maintain temperatures, optimize
energy use, and offer smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity.
3. Automobiles
Modern vehicles rely heavily on embedded systems for safety, performance, and control:
 Engine Control Units (ECUs): Manage fuel injection, ignition, and emissions for optimal performance.
 Safety systems: ABS, airbags, traction control, and stability systems respond in real time using
microcontrollers.
 Infotainment, navigation, parking sensors: All powered by embedded processors to deliver information
and ease driving.
 It's not rare for a car to host dozens—or even over 50—microprocessors controlling everything from
windows to air conditioning.
4. Consumer Electronics & Daily Gadgets
Devices we use every day:
 Mobile phones, gaming consoles, printers, cameras: Microcontrollers manage power, displays,
sensors, and user interfaces.
 Smart devices: Thermostats, smart TVs, remote controls—rely on embedded logic for responsive,
efficient operation.
5. Medical & Safety Equipment
High reliability and precision are key:
 Microcontrollers power pacemakers, insulin pumps, and diagnostic machines—ensuring consistent,
accurate function.
 Safety devices like fire alarms, gas detectors, and smoke alarms depend on them for critical monitoring
and response.
6. Industrial Automation & IoT
Automation and connected systems are powered by embedded controllers:
 Factories use microcontrollers to drive robotic arms, conveyor belts, and sensor networks.
 In IoT systems, they collect sensor data and control devices like irrigation systems, smart meters, and
home automation hubs.
7. Wearables & Fitness Trackers
Tiny, efficient, and always active:
 These devices use microcontrollers to track steps, monitor heart rate, manage batteries, and sync via
Bluetooth.

Summary Table

Domain Examples Why Microcontrollers?

Toys & Gadgets Speak & Spell, programmable robots Low cost, simple control logic

Home Appliances Microwave, washing machine, Automation, energy efficiency, safety

Domain Examples Why Microcontrollers?

refrigerator

Automobiles ECUs, ABS, infotainment systems Real-time control, safety, networking

Integrated logic, compact design, power

Consumer Electronics Phones, TVs, printers
management

Medical & Safety

Pacemakers, detectors Precision, reliability, continuous operation
Devices

Industrial & IoT

Factory automation, smart meters Connectivity, efficiency, automation
Systems

Wearables Fitness trackers, smartwatches Energy efficiency, compact form, real-time data

Discussion
Microcontrollers underpin nearly every modern device—from toys to cars, kitchen appliances, medical tools,
and wearables. Their compact size, low cost, energy efficiency, and capability for real-time control make them
perfect for embedded systems.

References Summary
o Mazidi, M.A. et al. The 8051 Microcontroller and Embedded Systems. Pearson, 2006.
o Arduino. “What is a Microcontroller?” [Link]
o Microchip Technology. “Introduction to Microcontrollers.” [Link]
o Stallings, W. Computer Organization and Architecture. Pearson, 2018.
o Intel. “What is a Microprocessor?” [Link]
o TutorialsPoint. “Microprocessor Basics.” [Link]
o Mazidi, M.A. The 8051 Microcontroller and Embedded Systems, Pearson, 2006.
o Intel. “Microprocessor vs Microcontroller.” [Link]
o TutorialsPoint. “Difference Between Microprocessor and Microcontroller.” TutorialsPoint
o Microchip Technology. “Introduction to Microcontrollers.” [Link]
 ESP32 Documentation: [Link]
 Embedded systems concept—purpose and prevalenceWikipedia
 Microcontroller role—why they're used, key featuresWikipediaTechTarget
 Applications across industries—examples from appliances, vehicles, electronics, and
moreTutorialsPointTechTarget+[Link]
[Link]+1GeeksforGeeks