It helps power electrical and electronic devices in our homes, businesses, schools, streets, airports, and the list goes on and on. 

You might be reading this article on your mobile phone, or laptop, whose battery was charged using the awesome powers of electricity. 

However, electricity is no laughing matter. 

It can be highly dangerous to electrical and electronic devices that use it, as well as ourselves. 

So when it comes to electricity, we need to have contingency plans in place to protect the devices, as well as ourselves from its raw power.

This contingency plan comes in the form of something known as a Fuse. 

But, what does a fuse do in a circuit?

The fuse plays a vital role in electrical and electronic circuits. It’s main purpose is to fail under overcurrent conditions thereby interrupting the flow of this overcurrent which could damage electrical or electronic components.

This article will dive into more detail of what a fuse does in a circuit, as well as different applications where you find a fuse, what overcurrent is and why we need protection against overcurrent.  

What is a fuse

The fuse is an electrical device that is designed to fail when subject to excessive currents that are not nominal in that particular circuit (I say particular circuit because every circuit is different having its own current limit).

The image below shows what the inside of the fuse looks like;

The fuse has many different versions of symbols that appear in circuit diagrams and schematics. Below are some of the most common; 

You can see in the first diagram,at the heart of the fuse is the Fuse wire. 

This fuse wire is the star of the show,whose job is to melt in the event of overcurrent conditions (which shall be discussed in the next section).  

The *fuse wire is a thin wire* made of conductive material which has a low melting point (this melting point however, is not in the range of the nominal currents that it would be subject to). 

What is over-current?

Every electrical and electronic device will have a Power rating. 

This rating indicates the maximum values of Voltage and Current that devices must operate under to work effectively.

I say under because going over these values will cause damage to the device, circuit, and components. 

Over-current, is an unwanted scenario when current levels rise above their nominal levels. 

If the overcurrent lasts for a long time, it will damage components and circuits within the device.

There are multiple causes for overcurrents which include;

• Short circuits
• Excessive load
• Incorrect design
• Arc fault 
• Ground fault

What does a fuse do in a circuit?

So, we know the dangers that electrical and electronic circuits are subject to which are Overcurrents and that a fuse is a device designed to fail under high currents.

It’s a match made in heaven! 

So, what does a fuse do in a circuit?

Put simply, the fuse has one job in a circuit, which is to fail when subject to excessive currents such as in the scenario of overcurrents. 

Examples are a great way to understand new concepts so let’s take a look at a simple circuit and what a fuse does to protect it. 

Below is a circuit that has a lamp powered by a battery along with a fuse for protection. 

Remember every device has an electrical rating. So, let’s assume the ratings for each of the components;

• Battery (12V)
• Lamp (12V , 1A)
• Fuse (12V, 1A)

Under normal conditions the battery provides a stable current of 1 Amp which powers the lamp. 

Since this current value is within the rating range of the fuse, there is no interruption to flow of current. 

Now, let’s imagine that an overcurrent scenario occurs causing a rise in current as pictured below.

As you can see the current value has risen to 2 Amps. But, the lamp is only rated to handle a current of 1 Amp. This rise in current will damage the lamp if it persists for some time. 

Lucky for the lamp, the fuse is also rated at 1 Amp. This means that the little fuse wire inside the fuse is going to melt thereby stopping the flow of current and protecting the lamp. 

This is essentially what a fuse does in every circuit. Protect its peers from destruction! 

Fuses are generally connected in series with electrical and electronic components that they are protecting. 

Why does the fuse wire melt in over-current scenarios 00 

Wires come in a variety of sizes which are capable of carrying a certain amount of current. 

Wire gauge is a measurement system which indicates the diameter of the wire. The information present in a wire gauge indicates how much current a particular wire can carry, its resistance and its weight.

Without going into too much detail, when there is a flow of current a certain amount of heat is generated. 

You might have felt this when using your smartphone for long periods of time, or touching your computer CPU. 

The wire gauge system helps us select the right wire which is capable of handling a certain amount of current.

For example, say we have a 20 Gauge electrical wire. 

This wire is capable of carrying a maximum current of 3A according to the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system. 

When subject to a current of 3A or less, the electrons (current) can freely move along as the wire is able to cope with these many electrons.

If we bump up the current to say 4A, there are now more electrons, but the surface area of the wire has not changed. 

This means that electrons are now going to start bumping into each causing a greater build of friction. As you might know, a greater build of friction leads to a greater build of heat which can melt the wire and its insulation causing damage. 

The fuse wire works in the same principle. 

The size of the wire is chosen to handle a certain amount of current (and therefore heat). 

If it is subject to a higher current, the heat generated is going to melt the fuse wire. 

Different types of fuses available for circuits

Electrical and electronic circuits can be classed into two main categories; Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (AC).

Alternating Current circuits deal with a current that reverses direction multiple times a second at regular intervals. 

Direct Current has currents that flow only in one direction. 

AC circuits deal with higher voltages compared to circuits that use DC. 

Due to this, fuses are broken down further into two categories;

• AC Fuses
• DC Fuses 

DC Fuses

The main problem when it comes to DC applications for fuses, is the ARC that is produced between the gap of the fuse when the fuse wire melts.

An arc can form between the gap within the fuse due to constant DC value. 

By increasing the distance between the electrodes, we can eliminate this arcing problem. DC fuses are designed to be bigger specifically to combat this issue.

AC Fuses

In AC circuits, arcing is not much of a problem as the amplitude of voltage changes up to 60 times every second (for frequencies of 50Hz or 60Hz). 

Therefore, the distance between the electrodes can be smaller compared to DC fuses. 

Different packaging of fuses used in specific circuits

As there are many different types of electrical and electronic circuits, as well as diverse applications, so too are they a wide variety of packaging of fuses to suit each application.

Note, these fuses have different packaging styles as well as voltage ratings appropriate for each application and sit under either the DC or AC fuse umbrella.

Cartridge fuses

If you need to protect high voltage electrical appliances such as motors, refrigerators, air-conditioners etc, a Cartridge fuse is your best option. 

These types are rated for voltages up to 600V (AC), and currents up to 600A. 

Cartridge fuses are further divided up into two options;

• General purpose (no time delay)
• Heavy duty (with time delay)

High voltage fuses

High voltage fuses were designed to work with voltages ranging from 1500V to 13kV!

You will find them in power systems protecting the likes of power transformers, distribution transformers, instrument transformers etc. 

Copper, silver or tin are the go to materials used for the fuse wire in high voltage fuses. 

Automotive fuses

You might have come across this type of fuse in your car.It is a plastic body with two metal teeth. Used commonly in automobiles for wiring and short circuit protection.

The voltage range for automobile fuses is around 12V – 42V. 

Surface mount fuses

Electronic circuits have shrunk in size over the years thanks to Surface Mount Devices (or SMD for short) technology. 

Things like smartphones can fit in the palm of your hand thanks to SMD components. 

SMD fuses are fuses used to protect SMD circuits in DC applications. Circuits like computers, cameras, smartphones and much more. 

Rewire-able fuses

Rewire-able fuses are most commonly used in low voltage systems in industries or or home electrical wiring. 

It gets its name because of the fact that it can be easily rewired.

Thermal fuses

Named aptly due to the fact that this type of fuse is temperature sensitive. 

The fuse wire is composed of an alloy that melts under high temperatures. They are also commonly known as Thermal Cutouts.

Re-settable fuses

Last but not least, is the Re-settable Fuse.

This fuse can be used multiple times without having to replace the fuse cartridge. 

They operate in the same manner as other fuses by opening in the case of an overcurrent, but unlike their counterparts, they can close the circuit again, resuming normal operation. 

Resettable fuses are great for applications where going in manually to replace a fuse might not be safe to do so.

Applications and circuits where fuses are used

We are surrounded by electrical and electronic devices. 

There are devices that make our lives easier with things like washing machines, dishwashers, air-conditioners, microwaves and much more.

Or, they help to entertain us and add some spice to our lives with devices like smartphones, computers, televisions, dvd players, etc. 

We now know the damage overcurrents can cause, and these devices are at risk of being damaged without the use of a fuse. 

Rather than naming every single device that uses a fuse (which will be many), I shall list the different systems and applications;

• Power systems
  • Motors
  • Transformers
• Power distribution 
  • Homes
  • Businesses
  • Schools
• Entertainment
  • Televisions 
  • DVD players
  • Gaming consoles
• Portable electronics
  • Smartphones
  • Digital cameras
• Computing
  • Laptops
  • Printers
  • Scanners
  • Hard Disk Drives
• Home Appliances
  • Toaster
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher 
  • Microwave
• Automotive
  • Cars
  • Motorbikes
  • Scooter

This isn’t an exhaustive list by any means. There are many more applications. Pretty much anything that uses electricity will benefit with a fuse in its circuit to protect it. 

Is it necessary to use a fuse in a circuit?

If the circuit has a chance of being subject to overcurrents, the simple answer is yes! 

Some electronic circuits might be able to go about their lives without the need of a fuse, but in general, it’s probably a good practice to design a circuit with a fuse. 

Does the fuse affect the overall resistance of a circuit?

No, the resistance of a fuse does not affect the overall resistance of a circuit. 

Fuses are made from metal alloys that have very low resistance and melting point. 

They are manufactured so that the cross sectional area of the fuse is able to carry the rated current of the circuit it will be used in and have a low resistance so it is a miniscule part of the overall circuit, which means a very low voltage drop. 

What is the difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker?

You might have heard both these terms before. But, what is the difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker?

The main difference is the reusability. 

A fuse can only be used once. When the fuse wire within the fuse has melted, the fuse cartridge needs to be removed and replaced with a new fuse.

Whereas, a circuit breaker can be reset multiple times if it has been tripped.

But, how does a circuit breaker achieve this? 

When current levels rise above the threshold limit within a circuit breaker, rather than a wire melting, a little electromagnet inside the circuit breaker pulls the contact points apart thus stopping the flow or current. 

Selecting the right fuse for your circuit

Choosing the right fuse for a circuit depends on the voltages and currents the circuit will be subject to. Then the appropriate fuse can be chosen. 

The general rule of thumb is to choose a current rating that is 150% – 200% higher than the maximum current value that the circuit will see.

First you would calculate the maximum current the circuit would be subject to. Then select a fuse with a rating 150% – 200% higher than that value. 

Say you have a washing machine running a load. The motor running is rated at 754W and a voltage of 115V. So the current is 754 / 115 = 6.5 A at full load. 

Going with the rule of thumb, you would select a fuse around 10A.

The post What does a fuse do in a circuit? appeared first on Electronic Guidebook.

These security measures ensure that you and all the other passengers get to their destination safely.

Rules and regulations enforced by airlines directly affect what you can and cannot take on a plane. 

You might be aware of the most common things you cannot take on a plane (especially in carry-on) like, liquids over 100mL, sharp objects (like knives), guns, flammable items etc.

Then there are some more vague things like electronic components, tools and instrumentation. 

Can take electronic components and tools on a plane?

The answer is yes, but they could cause some confusion with aviation security. While they do not have exact guidelines for some of theses items, there are some things you can do to increase your chances of taking them on the plane.

Obviously there are different guidelines for different airports and airlines, but, there are some common rules among them. 

Also, when it comes to luggage, you have the option of checked-in and carry-on. However, with some items, you are prohibited to take them through carry-on. 

This article will not concentrate on one particular airport/airline rules and regulations, rather it will cover the general guidelines on what you should take via check-in or carry-on luggage.

Checked baggage vs Carry-on

Whether you are travelling near or far, you will need to pack all your essentials and take them with you.

Taking your things via checked-in baggage or carry-on all depends on your situation.

You might be moving to a new country and need to take all your things with you, so choosing checked-in baggage is your best option.

Or, you might just be going for a week holiday where you only need a few things. Carry-on is your best option here.

What’s the difference between checked in baggage and carry-on.

Can you take electronic components on a plane?

Checked-In Baggage

Checked in baggage is baggage that you hand over to airport staff when you check-in for your flight.

Checked in luggage is ideal when you are moving to another country or going for an extended vacation, and need to take a lot of your personal belongings with you.

The typical weight allowance for checked in baggage ranges from 15kgs to 30kgs (all depending on the airline you are travelling with). The average weight is 20kg. 

Also, depending on the airline you are flying with, checked in luggage is included. On some budget airlines it is not, and you do have to pay extra to get checked in. 

Pros 

Again the need for checked in baggage will depend on your situation. 

But, checked in luggage does have its advantages. Here are some of them:

• Higher weight allowance
• You can pack items in check-in luggage which might not be permitted on carry-on
• Once you have checked in the bags you do not have to worry about lugging them around 

Cons

Here are some of the disadvantages of check-in baggage

• Sometimes have to pay extra to have check-in luggage included in ticket
• Possibilities of the Airline losing your bags

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on baggage is ideal for short trips and vacations. You might only need essentials and a few items of clothing. Or, you might be able to travel for long periods of time with few things.

You do not hand over your carry-on bags to staff when checking in, but take them with you on the plane where you can store them in the overhead compartments above your designated seat.

The weight allowance for carry-on luggage ranges from 7kgs – 10kgs. Again, this all depends on the Airline. However, the standard weight tends to be 7kgs.

Generally, everyone is entitled to carry on luggage and no extra fees have to be paid.

Pros

Here are the advantages of carry-on bags:

• Airline cannot lose your bags
• Do not have to pay extra
• Avoid having to wait at baggage carousel to get your bags

Cons

Here are some disadvantages:

• While the airline cannot lose your bags, you have the responsibilities of not losing your own bags
• Certain items are not permitted to be take on carry-on luggage

General guideline of what is not permitted on a plane

Whether you’re travelling within your own country, or overseas, countries have different rules and regulations when it comes to what you can take on a flight.

So, while restrictions might vary from country to country, there is a commonality of certain goods that are prohibited on a plane.

Most of these items are not allowed to take as carry-on luggage, however, you can pack these items in your checked-in bags.

Sharp Items

Items that include cutting implements such as knives, box cutters, letter openers, scissors, and  tools such as screwdriver, hammers etc.

Sporting Goods

Sporting equipment such as club-like items that include baseball bats, pool cues, golf clubs, lacrosse sticks, brass knuckles, cricket bats, boomerangs and more. 

Flammable items

Items that include lighters, box of matches, explosives, corrosive or toxic items.

Firearms/Weapons

Firearms and weapons of any kind are prohibited, as well as replicas and toys

Aerosols and Liquids

Items that are not medicinal or toiletry and exceed the 100mL limit

Lithium Batteries

Spare of loose batteries are not allowed in checked in luggage. The batteries need to be installed in the electronic equipment they power. 

However, they are permitted as carry-on luggage as long as they are protected against damage and short circuits. 

Batteries that exceed specifications of 160Wh or 8g lithium content are prohibited as either checked-in or carry-on luggage. 

While this list is not an extensive list, these are the most common things you cannot take through carry-on.

You can check them in if you have checked-in bags. Spare lithium batteries however, are not allowed as checked-in baggage.

Electronic Devices

The good news when it comes to your electronic devices is that you are allowed them on as carry-on.

As long as the batteries are securely installed in them, and they do not exceed the specification of 160Wh or 8g lithium content.

The most common electronic devices such as cameras, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, portable gaming consoles are fine to take on a plane.

Can you take electronic components on a plane?

Electronic Components and tools

Now, while airlines have guidelines outlined for common goods that you cannot take on a plane, there are grey areas when it comes to items such as electronic components.

When it comes to electronic components, there are components that are loose items such as resistors, LED’s, capacitors etc. Then you have exposed Printed Circuit boards (PCB) such as Arduinos and Raspberry Pis. 

For someone who is not familiar with electronic components, and PCB’s, they can look quite suspicious. 

While there is no rule that you cannot take these items on a plane, having them in your carry-on luggage will most likely cause an issue while going through security.

The key to taking electronic components on a plane as carry-on is to disassemble,organise,box and label everything.

If you have a bunch of resistors and capacitors, have two seperate ziploc bags or plastic containers with labels on them clearly stating what they are.

The same thing applies with an Arduino or Raspberry Pi. If possible store them in their original packaging. That way if you get stopped at security, the packaging will do all the explaining. 

If you do not have the original packaging, again store them in a box clearly stating what they are.You could even print out a picture and specifications to eliminate confusion.

Another great tip is to pack all your electronic components at the top in your bags. This way it shows you are not trying to hide anything. 

If you have the luxury of checked-in luggage, your best option is to pack everything in there.

What if you have a prototype of your DIY project?

This might be an issue as you will not be able to communicate what exactly it is you are taking. 

Again, your best option is to disassemble your project down into modules (resistors, switches, sensors, arduino, battery, etc) that you can label and communicate effectively what they are.

Electronic Tools and Measuring Instruments

There are electronic tools and instrumentation that you might need to take on the plane. 

Tools

Tools include things like wire strippers,crimpers, pliers, soldering irons etc. With the rule of sharp items being prohibited on carry-on, you are at the discretion of aviation security.

If your tools are less than 7 inches long you will be able to take them on the plane, otherwise you will have to check them in. 

Measuring Instruments

Instrumentation such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, amp meters will have to follow the similar rulings as electronic devices.

If they are powered by lithium ion batteries, the battery limit cannot exceed 160Wh. 

Most of these electronic measuring instruments come with sharp probes. Again with rules against sharp objects, they will need to be under 7 inches long.

Tips for taking electronic components and tools on a plane

Since there aren’t any clear rules when it comes to electronic components and tools, there are things you can do to make your transition through security smoother, and give you a higher chance of being allowed to take them on the plane in your carry-on. 

Store in Original Packaging

Storing your electronic components, and tools in their original packaging will be beneficial as you will be able to explain clearly to airport security exactly what you are travelling with.

You will not have to go detail explaining it either, as the packaging will be able to do that for you. It will give security staff more reassurance.

Label and package

If you do not have the original packaging, that is fine. You can still store them in a box or clear ziploc bag. Make sure to label them and give a brief description of what each item is.

Packing

When it comes to packing your electronic components and tools, make sure to pack them right at the top.

If you are pulled aside because the x-ray machine detected something abnormal in your bag, you will be able to open it up and find the contents without a problem.

Doing this also shows that you are not trying to hide anything. 

Communication

So, you have boxed and labeled your electronic components, and packed them right at the top. What else can you do to increase your chances of being allowed to take them on the plane?

Your best chances lie with communicating with check-in and security staff because, at the end of the day you are at their mercy of what you’re allowed to take or not. 

If they see that your items could pose a threat, they can prohibit you from taking them.

So, communication is key. 

You could call the check-in staff ahead of time and let them know what you’re planning on bringing. They can give you a heads up if your items are permitted.

If you don’t get to call in ahead of time, make sure to get to security early and have a chat with the staff. Again, let them know the contents of your bag. Give them a brief description of what each item is and why you need them.

This will give you a better chance of being allowed to take your electronic components and tools on the plane.

Can you take electronic components on a plane?

Why are certain items not allowed on a plane?

The past couple of decades has seen unfortunate tragedies in the airline industry. Due to this escalation in threats, aviation security restrictions from country to country have been increased and for good reasons.

Restrictions such as what items cannot be taken on board a plane. 

They have been restricted because these items have the potential of inflicting harm if they are used in the wrong way, and pose a threat to everybody on board the plane.

All these security measures have been put in place to protect you and everyone else who is travelling alongside you.

Conclusion

So, if you have electronic components and tools you need to travel with, you will be able to travel with them, just make sure that you follow the tips highlighted in this article.

While there are no clear rules around travelling with them, there are things you can do to increase your chances of being allowed them on the plane.

If you do have checked-in luggage, pack them in there. 

Just remember that all these restrictions are put in place to protect you and all other travelers. So work with aviation security to make your journey safer.

Can you take electronic components on a plane?

The post Can you take electronic components on a plane? appeared first on Electronic Guidebook.

Maybe you are like me and when you first heard these terms you assumed that they were just two ways of referring to the same thing. 

But, after learning more about them over the years, there are many differences between the microprocessor and the microcontroller.

Things such as the structure, memory, speed, application are just some of the few differences.

Before we dive in deeper at the differences, I shall give you an overview of the basics of the Microprocessor and Microcontroller.

What is a Microprocessor?

Let’s get started with the Microprocessor. The Microprocessor in its simplest definition is an electronic component designed to carry out computational tasks.

At the heart of a computer is located a central processing unit (CPU). A microprocessor is a computer processor that incorporates the functions of a CPU that can be found on a single integrated chip. 

The central processing unit is essentially the brain of a computer and can consist of one or more microprocessors made up of thousands of transistors located on an integrated chip. 

The microprocessor and other parts of the computer work together in achieving the goal to compute arithmetic and logical functions using a set of instructions to perform tasks within a computer.

History

The 1970’s saw the invention of the Microprocessor. The main purpose for it’s invention was to be utilized in embedded systems. Embedded systems such as mobile phones, cars, military weapons, home appliances and many more.

The microprocessor has dramatically evolved over the years.

In the early 70’s Intel released the 4004 microprocessor; a 4-bit chip that ran at a clock speed of 108 kHz. Due to its small size, the 4004 microprocessor could not perform mathematical calculations.

The second generation in 1972 saw the release of the 8080 microprocessor. This was an 8-bit microprocessor which was quite popular commercially.

The late 70’s was the dawn of the third generation with Intel releasing the first ever 16-bit microprocessor; the 8086. This increase in memory size saw a rise in its uses as it could now be used to do arithmetic calculations. 

The 4th and 5th generation in the late 80’s and early 90’s gave way to 64-bit microprocessors. An increase in memory was not the only upgrade, as speeds increased exponentially.

The major companies that were instrumental in the development and innovation of the microprocessor include Intel, Motorola, and Zilog.

Basic operation of a Microprocessor

So how does it all work? What are the basics of the structure and operation?

The microprocessor plays a vital role in computer systems. If you were to eliminate the microprocessor from computer architecture, you would not be able to perform any operations.

The basic operation can be broken down into three parts; fetching, decoding and execution.

It takes a set of instructions in machine language and then proceeds to execute them.After that it relays information to the processor telling it what to do. 

While executing the instruction the microprocessor will perform basic operations such as, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and logical tasks using the Arithmetic Logic Unit. 

After this data which is located in one area in the Microprocessor can now move to the next location.

There is a register known as the Program counter that stores the address of the next instruction. 

Types of Microprocessor

With the many different companies that are involved in the production of microprocessors, there are many different types of microprocessors. 

The main differences between the different types are the way the carry out instructions.

They include Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC), Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC), and Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC).

Complex Instruction Set Computer

CISC is a type of architecture where a single line of instruction can execute many low level tasks such as loading from memory, storing into memory or an arithmetic calculation.

Reduced Instruction Set Computer

RISC is a type of architecture involving simple instructions that get executed straight away. These instructions are performed every clock cycle.

 RISC takes advantage of using many registers to avoid having large exchanges with memory.

 Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing 

Finally we have Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing. EPIC allows a computer to perform instructions parallel.

 It eliminates the use of high clock frequencies when executing complex instructions.

Applications of Microprocessors

The most common place microprocessors can be found, and one that most people are familiar with are in Computers. 

Other than computers, they can also be found in Control applications.

Most commonly one can find them in home appliances such as microwaves, ovens, washing machines etc. They are used to control different parameters such as speed, temperature, pressure etc. 

Communication is another field where you can find a wide range of products that use microprocessors. They are used by telecommunication companies in digital telephones and modems.

Broadcasting via satellite to television sets has also been made possible because of the microprocessor. 

Many Consumer Products have a microprocessor. From toys to education and beyond. Things like calculators, gaming systems, mobile phones, and more.

What is a microcontroller?

Now that we have covered the basics of what a Microprocessor is, let us cover the basics of the Microcontroller.

So what is a Microcontroller?

A Microcontroller is essentially a mini computer. It is an integrated circuit that contains one or more processors.

It can be found everywhere from your smartphone, coffee machine, flashlight and many more. 

It is compared to a small computer due to its similar features.

 It contains a Central Processing Unit, Random Access Memory (RAM), Flash memory, Serial Bus Interface, Input/Output ports and EEPROM.

Much like the Microprocessor, the Microcontroller takes some sort of input, processes it and then outputs a certain action based on certain criteria.

History

As we saw that during the early 70’s, Intel was busy inventing the first ever microprocessor.

While this was happening, a guy named Gary Boone of Texas Instruments was working on something similar. That something similar was the Microcontroller.

He created a calculator with all the essential circuits on a single integrated chip. The only things missing however, were the keypad and display. But, still a major breakthrough.

It was called the TMS1802NC. It included five thousand transistors which gave it three thousand bits of program memory and 128 bits of access memory. Because of this, it was possible to perform a variety of tasks. 

Between 1972 and 1974, microcontrollers developed by Texas Instruments were primarily used in the calculators they were manufacturing.

After this, Texas Instruments started to offer the microcontroller to the electronics industry with a selection of ROM and RAM sizes.

As with the microprocessor, the microcontroller also saw exponential growth. 

Basic operation of a Microcontroller

The basic operation of a Microntroller is controlling hardware based on commands that it receives, decodes and executes.

It can receive information via inputs such as switches, buttons and sensors.

It can control peripheral (output) circuitry like displays, led’s, motors etc.

Basic structure of a Microntroller

CPU: This is the brain. It’s main purpose is to fetch an instruction, decode it and execute it accordingly. All parts of the microcontroller lead to the CPU.

Memory: The memory in a Microcontroller has the same function as it does in a microprocessor. Program source code is stored either through the ROM, RAM or flash memory depending on the situation. 

Parallel Input/Output Ports: As the name suggests, parallel input/output ports are used to connect inputs and outputs to the microcontroller. Input can include buttons, switches and sensors, Outputs can include motors, LED’s LCD’s etc.

Serial Ports: The serial port provides a means of interfacing a microcontroller with other peripheral circuitry. 

Timers/Counters: These are an essential part of the system. Timers and counters provide all timing and counting functions inside a microcontroller. 

Analog to Digital Converter (ADC): The main function of an ADC is to convert an analog input signal to a digital signal. Sensors will normally always output an analog signal. So the ADC can take this analog signal and convert it to a series of 0’s and 1’s. 

Digital to Analog Converter (DAC): The DAC works the opposite way to the ADC. It takes a digital signal and converts it to analog.

Types of Microcontroller

In the world of microcontrollers, there are a lot of different types available.

The most common of them all is the 8051 family. Among hobbyists and experts, the 8051 is the ideal pick. 

The first 8051, was an 8-bit microcontroller created by Intel in 1981. It was available in a 40 pin dual inline package (DIP) with 4kb of ROM and 128 bytes of RAM.

We then have the Peripheral Interface Controller (PIC) which was created by Microchip technology. 

Because of its wide availability, low cost and large user base, the PIC is also a great choice for hobbyists and experts alike. 

Next we have the AVR microcontroller, or Advanced Virtual RISC. This is my choice of microcontrollers that I use for many of my projects. They are easy to use, low cost and have a lot of resources available online. 

It was one of the earlier microcontroller families to use on-chip flash memories. 

Finally we have the ARM microcontroller. ARM refers to the name of the company that manufactures them.

The ARM base of microcontrollers do not have on board flash memory. ARM microcontrollers are great for complex embedded systems. 

They are a 32-bit architecture, and because of its power saving attributes, a lot of them are found in mobile phone applications.

Applications of Microcontrollers

Much like the microprocessor, the microcontroller can be found in many embedded electronic devices.

They are used for control and sensing applications. 

Control applications can be found in many industrial companies such as food sorting, packaging, etc.

When it comes to sensing applications, due to the wide selection of sensors available the microcontrollers can be found in a variety of applications where sensing is required.

Sensors such as for temperature, light, fire detection, gas, pressure and many more.

Because of its low cost and ease of use, the microcontroller has become the hobbyists best friend. 

Many aspiring inventors, startups, and DIYer’s will utilize the microcontroller in many of their projects without having to fork out a whole lot of money.

So what are the differences between a Microprocessor and Microcontroller?

Now that we have covered the basics of both devices, we can dive into what is the difference between a microprocessor and microcontroller.

As you might have seen from reading about both devices that they are actually quite similar.

There isn’t a whole lot that separates them. They were both created around the same time and for similar purposes.

They also both use the fetch, decode and execute as their primary means of operation.

Saying this, there are few differences between the microprocessor and microcontroller. 

I shall break down the differences into categories which are; structure, speed, power consumption, and price.

Structure

One of the major differences lies inside both IC’s, and that is the structure.

The structure of microcontroller can be viewed as a computer embedded onto a single IC.

It has its own processor core, memory (ROM,RAM) and input/output ports.

The microprocessor only contains a CPU. It does not have it’s own memory (RAM, ROM , EEPROM).

 The designer of the system has to include memory externally. 

The microcontroller is a self contained system which has its own memory.

Speed

When it comes to operating speeds, the microprocessor leads the way.

The average microprocessor has speeds of up to 1GHz, whereas the microcontroller has speeds in the range of 8MHz to 50MHz.

Power consumption

If you are looking for the right IC to save on power, the microcontroller is your best option. 

The microcontroller has an in built power saving system, like idle or power saving modes which can be programmed accordingly.

Also, there are less external components needed to get the microcontroller going, so it requires far less power.

The microprocessor however does not have any specific power saving system and also requires external components.

 Due to this fact it consumes more power than the microcontroller.

Price

Because the microprocessor requires more peripheral circuitry (memory, input/output ports) to operate, it costs more to setup a system with a microprocessor than it does with a microcontroller.

Applications

When it comes to applications, the microcontroller is mostly used in less complex systems.

Systems where specific resources are needed and known. So the microcontroller is used because all resources are found on a single chip. 

The relationship between the input and output is known. 

A microprocessor is used in more complex applications, where tasks and resources are not specific and so the system needs to be designed accordingly. 

The relationship between input and output here is not known.

Which is better?

Now you know the differences between the microprocessor and microcontroller.

So which is better?

The thing is that one is not better than the other.

It all depends on what the application or project demands.

If you require an IC with higher processing speeds and your system has much more complex tasks, the microprocessor is your device of choice.

If however, you require an IC that has power saving capabilities and requires fewer peripherals, then the microcontroller is what is right for your system.

So, you can see that it really all depends on whatever system one is designing that will determine which is better.

Conclusion

So you can see that though they are similar, things like structure, speed, power consumption and price are what differentiates the microprocessor and microcontroller.

A microcontroller can be viewed as an all in one integrated chip. It is essentially a computer.

Whereas, a microprocessor has a single function and requires external peripheral circuitry depending on the application.

The post <H2>Difference between a Microprocessor and Microcontroller</H2> appeared first on Electronic Guidebook.