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Intro to Microcontrollers

The document provides an introduction to microcontrollers, focusing on their definition, evolution, and role in embedded systems, particularly highlighting the ESP32 microcontroller. It outlines various types of microcontrollers based on bit size, manufacturer, and application areas, along with their common uses. The document also emphasizes the importance of microcontrollers in various sectors such as IoT, robotics, automotive, home appliances, and medical devices.

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6 views18 pages

Intro to Microcontrollers

The document provides an introduction to microcontrollers, focusing on their definition, evolution, and role in embedded systems, particularly highlighting the ESP32 microcontroller. It outlines various types of microcontrollers based on bit size, manufacturer, and application areas, along with their common uses. The document also emphasizes the importance of microcontrollers in various sectors such as IoT, robotics, automotive, home appliances, and medical devices.

Uploaded by

mohmed.ashrf.mohmed.1
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction to Microcontrollers

& ESP32

Presented by:

Eng. Mohamed Ashraf


Objectives:

• Understand what a microcontroller is, how it


originated, and its role in embedded systems.

• Learn about different types of microcontrollers and


their uses.

• Explore the ESP32 microcontroller in depth.

• Learn how to set up the ESP32 with the Arduino


IDE.

• Perform simple coding tasks to test the board.


What is a Microcontroller?
A microcontroller (often abbreviated as MCU) is a compact
integrated circuit designed to perform specific control
functions within an embedded system.

It includes:
• Processor (CPU) – the brain that executes instructions.
• Memory – to store data and program code (e.g., Flash,
RAM).
• Input/Output (I/O) Ports – to communicate with other
devices or sensors.
• Peripherals – like timers, ADCs, UARTs, and more.

Example: A microcontroller might control the temperature in an


air conditioner by reading a sensor and adjusting the
compressor accordingly.
Origin and Evolution

The first microcontroller was developed in the early


1970s:
•1971: Intel introduced the 4004, which was
technically a
microprocessor.

•1974: Intel 8048 became one of the first true


microcontrollers – it had CPU, RAM, ROM, and I/O on a
single chip.

Microcontrollers evolved to become cheaper, faster,


more energy-efficient, and capable of more complex
tasks.

Today, companies like Microchip (PIC series),


Role in Embedded Systems
An embedded system is a computer system that
performs a dedicated function, often within a larger
device.

Microcontroller’s role:
• Acts as the central control unit.
• Collects data from sensors.
• Processes that data based on programmed logic.
• Controls actuators or other devices accordingly.

Common Applications:
• Home appliances (washing machines, microwaves)
• Cars (engine control units, airbags)
• Industrial machines (robotic arms)
• Consumer electronics (remote controls, fitness
trackers)
Summary

Feature Microcontroller
Purpose Perform specific control tasks
Key CPU, memory, I/O, peripherals on one
Components chip
First DevelopedMid-1970s (e.g., Intel 8048)
Embedded systems (home, automotive,
Common Usage
IoT)
Low-cost, efficient control for dedicated
?Why Important
tasks
Types of Microcontrollers and Their Uses:
Microcontrollers come in various types, which differ by architecture, bit size,
manufacturer, and features.
Below is a categorized guide:
1. Based on Bit Size
The bit size refers to the width of the data bus, which impacts the amount
of data a microcontroller can process at once.
Type Description Common Uses
Simple, low-power, and Remote controls,
bit MCUs-8 inexpensive. Suitable for toys, simple
.basic tasks sensors
Better performance than 8- Automotive
bit MCUs-16 bit; used where more power sensors, small
.is needed appliances
High processing power and IoT, industrial
bit MCUs-32 advanced features. Often systems, smart
.ARM Cortex-based home
2. Based on Manufacturer / Popular
Families:
 AVR (by Atmel/Microchip)
• Popular chip: ATmega328 (used in
Arduino Uno)
• Features: 8-bit, easy to program, popular
in hobby projects
• Uses: Prototyping, robotics, educational
tools
PIC (by Microchip)
•Types: PIC10, PIC16, PIC32
•Features: Range from 8-bit to 32-bit, robust
and reliable
•Uses: Consumer electronics, automotive,
medical devices
PIC10 PIC16
PIC32
ARM Cortex (by ARM, used by many brands
like STM, NXP, TI)

• Popular series: Cortex-M0/M3/M4/M7


• Features: 32-bit, high performance, low power
• Uses: Smartphones, drones, real-time systems, IoT
MSP430 (by Texas Instruments)
• Features: 16-bit, ultra-low power
• Uses: Wearables, medical devices,
portable instruments
STM32 (by STMicroelectronics)

• Features: ARM Cortex-based, high-speed I/O,


timers, ADCs
• Uses: Drones, industrial control, motor drives

ESP Series (by Espressif


Systems)
• Popular models: ESP8266,
ESP32
• Features: Built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth,
32-bit, low cost
• Uses: IoT applications, smart
home devices, wireless controllers
.3Based on Applications

Suitable
Application Area Example Devices
Microcontroller Type
Smart bulbs,
IoT (Internet of ESP32, STM32, ARM
sensors,
Things) Cortex
thermostats
ATmega328 (Arduino), Autonomous robots,
Robotics
STM32 line followers
PIC16/32, ARM Engine control units,
Automotive
Cortex-M airbags
Home Washing machines,
bit PIC/AVR-8
Appliances microwaves
Fitness trackers,
Wearables MSP430, STM32L
smartwatches
Glucometers, blood
Medical Devices PIC, MSP430, STM32
pressure monitors

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