IDENTIFY THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF
MICROCONTROLLERS
AND SET UP THE PROGRAMMING ENVIRONMENT
Learning Objectives
• Define what a microcontroller is.
• Explain the basic functions of a microcontroller.
• Differentiate microcontrollers and microprocessors.
• Set up a programming environment (Arduino IDE).
• Write and upload a simple program to a
microcontroller.
Definition of Microcontroller
• A microcontroller (MCU) is a compact integrated
circuit.
• Functions as a 'computer on a chip'.
• Includes CPU, memory, and input/output ports.
• Designed to perform dedicated tasks.
Block Diagram of a Microcontroller
• CPU – processes instructions.
• Memory (ROM, RAM, Flash) – stores data and
programs.
• I/O Ports – connect MCU to external devices.
• Timers & Counters – handle events and delays.
Key Features of Microcontrollers
• Small size, low power consumption.
• Affordable and widely available.
• Easy to integrate into embedded systems.
• Used in both simple and complex devices.
Microcontroller vs. Microprocessor
• Microcontroller: Designed for specific tasks, with
built-in memory and I/O.
• Microprocessor: Requires external memory and
peripherals, general-purpose.
• MCUs are more cost-efficient for embedded
applications.
Importance of Microcontrollers
• Found in everyday devices: washing machines,
remotes, cars.
• Essential for IoT, robotics, automation.
• Provide efficiency, control, and intelligence in
electronics.
Functions of CPU in MCU
• Fetches, decodes, and executes instructions.
• Controls data flow between peripherals.
• Coordinates all operations inside MCU.
Functions of Memory
• ROM – permanent storage for program code.
• RAM – temporary storage for data processing.
• Flash – reprogrammable storage for firmware.
Functions of I/O Ports & Timers
• I/O Ports: Interface with sensors, actuators, displays.
• Timers: Keep track of time events.
• Counters: Count external pulses/events.
Examples of Popular Microcontrollers
• ATmega328P – used in Arduino Uno.
• PIC16F877A – educational and industrial use.
• STM32 – ARM Cortex-M based, high performance.
• ESP32 – with WiFi and Bluetooth, used in IoT.
Comparison of Microcontrollers
• ATmega328P – 16 MHz, 2 KB RAM.
• PIC16F877A – 20 MHz, multiple I/O ports.
• STM32 – 72+ MHz, advanced peripherals.
• ESP32 – 240 MHz, wireless connectivity.
Real-Life Applications
• Home appliances (microwave, washing machine).
• Industrial automation.
• Robotics and drones.
• IoT devices (smart home, wearables).
Case Study: Arduino Uno
• Based on ATmega328P.
• Beginner-friendly and widely used.
• Supports multiple shields and modules.
• Open-source platform with huge community.
Introduction to Arduino IDE
• Free, open-source software.
• Used for writing, compiling, and uploading programs.
• Supports multiple boards (Arduino Uno, Mega,
Nano).
Downloading Arduino IDE
• Go to arduino.cc.
• Choose version for Windows, Mac, or Linux.
• Download and install step-by-step.
Exploring Arduino IDE Interface
• Code editor – write your programs.
• Verify/compile button – check code for errors.
• Upload button – send program to board.
• Serial monitor – view real-time data.
Writing Your First Program
• Example: Blink an LED.
• Code structure: setup() and loop().
• Upload to Arduino Uno.
• Observe LED blinking.
Uploading the Program
• Connect Arduino via USB.
• Select board and COM port.
• Click 'Upload'.
• Success message appears.
Troubleshooting Errors
• Check USB connection.
• Select correct board and port.
• Check syntax errors in code.
• Ensure drivers are installed.
Pin Mapping of Arduino Uno
• Digital pins – control ON/OFF devices.
• Analog pins – read sensor values.
• Power pins – provide voltage and ground.
• Special pins – PWM, communication.
Input Example: Button
• Connect button to input pin.
• Read HIGH/LOW signal.
• Use condition (if) in code.
• Control other devices based on input.
Output Example: LED
• Connect LED to output pin.
• Use digitalWrite() to turn ON/OFF.
• Combine with delay() for effects.
Input + Output Example
• Button controls LED.
• If button is pressed → LED ON.
• If button is released → LED OFF.
Sensors and Actuators
• Sensors: detect changes (temperature, light).
• Actuators: perform actions (motors, buzzers).
• MCU connects sensors → processes data → drives
actuators.
Recap: Functions of Microcontrollers
• MCU = CPU + Memory + I/O.
• Processes instructions efficiently.
• Used in countless applications.
Recap: Programming Environment
• Arduino IDE setup is beginner-friendly.
• Supports writing, compiling, uploading.
• First program: Blink LED.
Key Terms & Definitions
• MCU – Microcontroller Unit.
• CPU – Central Processing Unit.
• ROM – Read Only Memory.
• RAM – Random Access Memory.
• I/O – Input/Output.
References
• Arduino Documentation: https://www.arduino.cc/
• PIC Tutorials: https://www.microchip.com/
• STM32 Resources: https://www.st.com/
• Free eBook: 'Exploring Arduino' by Jeremy Blum (PDF
online).
Future of Microcontrollers
• IoT – Smart cities, smart homes.
• AI integration in embedded devices.
• Autonomous vehicles and robotics.
• Expanding role in automation.
