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.

A chef and his knife, a carpenter and his hammer, an artist and his paintbrush.

With time these tools will degrade and require you to either buy new ones or have them serviced.

Having a tool that is in optimal condition is crucial between performing the task poorly or properly.

So when it comes to whether you need to calibrate a multimeter, the simple answer is yes. A multimeter is an electronic measuring instrument which just like any other electronic equipment, will need servicing with time to maintain its accuracy. 

If you are unsure of why you need to calibrate your multimeter, or the benefits of calibration, this article will provide you with the basics to get you own your way to multimeter accuracy.

What is calibration?

Calibration is a term synonymous with measurement technology.

It is the comparison of the measurement values of a piece of measurement equipment compared to the values of the calibration standard of known accuracy. 

The final result of the calibration test can either be; there is no significant error (the device being tested is showing accurate readings), there is a slight error (but not big enough for and adjustments to be made) and there is a significant error and proper adjustments need to be made to ensure device is operating within the calibration standard.

If you want to put it simply, calibration can be seen as a comparison test.

What causes multimeters to lose accuracy?

All multimeters come with a manual with specifications of how to store your multimeter, and what are the best conditions.

Because the multimeter contains electronic components, things like temperature, humidity will have a direct impact on its accuracy. 

Other variables that impact the performance of a multimeter can be line voltage. They have a specific range and reading outside this range will add to the errors. 

One thing to take into account if readings do not seem right, is the batteries that the multimeter is running on. 

If the batteries are running low it can affect the readings.

Why is calibration important?

As you probably already know, time can work for, or against you. When it comes to measuring devices, their accuracy will degrade over time.

As I mentioned above there many external conditions that can impact the accuracy of measuring device like a multimeter.

But, sooner or later no matter how well you store it, the accuracy will drop.

But why is it so important to calibrate your multimeter?

Quite simply, it is important because it is going to directly influence the readings you take such as voltage, current, resistance etc.

Say you are doing some fault finding in a circuit and need to calculate the voltage at a certain point. The key element to finding the right voltage all depends on the accuracy of your multimeter. If it is off quite considerably it will not benefit you.

Designing a simple voltage divider circuit will not be possible if your multimeter is not reading the right resistance due to it not being calibrated.

What needs to be calibrated?

The multimeter is a very useful measurement equipment. It has a lot of features and many measuring capabilities.

The most common of them are voltage, current and resistance.

Other aspects that a multimeter can measure (depending on its complexity) include, continuity, capacitance, frequency, diode test, AC voltage and current.

So, when it comes to calibrating a multimeter, there is not one but many calibration tests that need to be performed. 

Calibrating just one part of it and not the others will hinder the overall performance as all these measuring capabilities of a multimeter work together. If there is a weak-link the whole system is flawed.

Other causes of wrong readings?

There will be other instances where your multimeter will be giving you wrong readings. 

You might read a voltage value even though no voltage is being applied. Or, when you do try to measure voltage you get a zero readings.

Your first assumption might be that you need to calibrate your device. However, this is not the issue. 

This problem will be that you have blown the internal fuse. Multimeters have specified ranges of voltage and amps that you can measure. 

Attempting to read outside of this range will blow the internal fuse. You will then have to replace the fuse to get back to normal working conditions.

So, if you have wrong readings, this does not necessarily mean you have to calibrate your multimeter, it could just be the simple task of replacing a fuse.

Analog vs Digital Multimeters

There are two types of multimeters available; Analog and Digital. 

The main most notable difference between the two is their display. The Analog multimeter displays its readings in the form of a needle. Whereas the digital multimeter displays its measurements as numbers on a screen.

There are other differences internally in the circuitry with how each of them does its measurements.

The advantage that an analog multimeter has over its digital counterpart is that when checking a diode, the analog multimeter is more accurate. Other than that most people opt to use a digital multimeter.

Coming back to our main point of calibration. No matter what kind of multimeter you have (analog or digital) it will still require you to calibrate it with time.

The difference in calibration between the two is that an analog multimeter is calibrated manually while the digital one is done automatically.

How often do I need to calibrate a multimeter?

The frequency at which you calibrate your multimeter all depends on factors such as manufacturers specification, and application its being used.

As we all know, every electronic device that you buy whether a consumer product or measurement device, comes with a manual that includes the best practices specified by the manufacturer.

Things like how to use it, dos and don’ts, warnings etc. With multimeters the manufacturer will have specifications on how often the device will need to be calibrated. Obviously you do not have to follow this exactly, but to get the best out of your multimeter it is advisable.

Things to consider as well, is whether the multimeter is analog or digital.

If you do not receive a manual, or your manual does not include information on calibration, you can always contact the manufacturer or check their website.

The next factor to consider is the application in which the multimeter is being used. Most notably the demands for accuracy. 

Say the multimeter is being used to test medical equipment, it is paramount that the measuring equipment is of the highest accuracy. So, in this instance it would be mandatory to calibrate at a higher frequency.

If you are a hobbyist, accuracy is not your greatest concern (unless you are developing medical equipment of course). So the frequency at which you calibrate your multimeter would be much longer. 

As you can see there are a couple of considerations to take into account on how often you need to calibrate your multimeter.

Do I need a professional to calibrate my multimeter?

If you use a multimeter for your own personal use, I would not suggest getting a professional to calibrate it, due to the fact that it can be quite expensive. 

If, however, you cannot be bothered to do it yourself or want your multimeter to be operating at peak performance then I would suggest getting a professional to calibrate it.

Going back to the testing of medical equipment, as I mentioned accuracy is of great importance. So, calibrating measurement equipment would require a professional.

Another important thing to mention is paperwork. For legal purposes companies get professionals to calibrate their measurement equipment not only to maintain their devices, but to keep a trail of legal/safety paperwork. This way they can keep a track of when they are serviced for legal and safety reasons.

So, if accuracy and legality aren’t of your greatest concerns I would not use a professional to calibrate a multimeter.

Where can I get my multimeter calibrated?

Say you do choose to calibrate your multimeter using a professional, where would be the best places?

Depending on which part of the world you live in, a quick google search of “multimeter calibration” will give you a list of many companies that can help you in your quest to calibration.

Or, you could contact the manufacturer of your multimeter and check if they include services which provide calibrating your device. 

The cost of calibration again depends on the company and where you are located. I live in New Zealand and the price ranges from $95 – $270 NZD depending on the type of multimeter. 

How to calibrate a multimeter

If you do decide to calibrate your multimeter yourself, below are great resources on how to do it. 

Digital Multimeter:

Analog Multimeter:

https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-calibrate-an-analog-voltmeter

Conclusion

So, hopefully you now see when it comes to whether you need to calibrate your multimeter the importance of doing so. 

No matter what application it is being used in, calibration helps keep your device working as it should be from the day you bought it.

Depending on accuracy, you may need to get a professional to do it for you, but if you are a hobbyist and are not fussed with the finer details, doing it yourself is totally fine.

As mentioned earlier, things like temperature and humidity degrade electronic equipment faster over time. So, store your multimeter in cooler conditions. Consult your multimeters manufacturers manual or website for further details.

The post Do you need to calibrate a multimeter? 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.

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