Microcontroller

A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit that combines a processor core, memory, and peripheral interfaces to control electronic devices.

Central processing unit: The part of a computer that executes instructions and coordinates operations. A microcontroller’s processor core executes its control program.
Machine code: Instructions encoded in a form a processor can execute directly. A microcontroller ultimately runs firmware as machine-code instructions.
Embedded system: A computer integrated into a larger device to perform dedicated functions. Microcontrollers are common processing units in embedded systems.
Microprocessor: A processor integrated circuit that typically relies on external memory and peripherals to form a complete computer. Unlike a microcontroller, it usually leaves memory and interfaces off-chip.
Jack Kilby: An American engineer who demonstrated the first working integrated circuit in 1958. His integrated-circuit work helped make compact computer systems practical.
Random-access memory: Volatile memory that stores data while a system is operating. Microcontrollers use it for temporary variables and runtime state.
Firmware: Software stored in a device that provides its low-level control and operation. Firmware defines how the microcontroller reads inputs and controls outputs.
Arduino: An open-source electronics platform built around programmable microcontroller boards and development tools. Arduino boards make microcontroller-based prototyping accessible.
System on a chip: An integrated circuit containing most or all components of a complete electronic system. A system-on-chip can integrate broader computing and communication functions than a typical microcontroller.
Intel 4004: A four-bit microprocessor released by Intel in 1971 as a commercial single-chip CPU. It exemplified processor integration that preceded single-chip microcomputers.

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