A highly integrated chip that contains all the components comprising a controller. Typically this includes a CPU, RAM, some form of ROM, I/Oports, and timers. Unlike a general-purpose computer, which also includes all of these components, a microcontroller is designed for a very specific task -- to control a particular system. As a result, the parts can be simplified and reduced, which cuts down on production costs.
Microcontrollers are sometimes called embedded microcontrollers, which just means that they are part of an embedded system -- that is, one part of a larger device or system.
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MicroMo Electronics: Microcontrollers
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Specializes in the design, assembly and application of high precision, miniature DC drive systems, components, and motion control systems.
8052.com Contains tutorials, news items, a code library, a microcontroller reference page, and related links.
Microcontroller primer/FAQ Contains general questions and answers about microcontrollers and embedded processors.
