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Microprocessor
An integrated computer circuit (chip) that performs the functions of a CPU such as calculations and data processing
Distributed control system
A control system where the controller elements are not in a centralised location, but distributed throughout the system with each component system controlled by one or more controllers
Pros
Quicker access to individual parts of the system
Shared loads
Cons
Much more expensive, as there are multiple processors and sensors
Much more complex, and harder to implement
Sensors
Input devices that measure physical quantities in analogue data (e.g. temperature, pressure, sound)
Advantages of microprocessors
Can process data much faster than humans
Due to these speeds, they can react very quickly to changes in the control system
Don’t get tired, can run 24/7
Can work in places where it might be dangerous for humans
Disadvantages of microprocessors
May be expensive to develop software, as they are specialised
Can’t run if there’s a power shortage
Can’t run in the case of a computer malfunction
Can’t react to events it has not been programmed for
ADC (Analogue to Digital Converter)
Converts analogue data from sensors to digital data so that the computer will read it. Analogue data is constantly changing and so ADCs have to sample it, losing some quality
Microsoft Kinetic Sensor
Contains 3D depth sensors, a colour camera and a micrphone array. Used for motion sensing and voice control
Centralised systems
A system where all computing is performed in a centralised location for many computers
Pros
Easy to administrate
More control
Cons
If one system fails, the entire system fails
Features of autonomous agents
Reactivity - reacts to external stimuli
Autonomy - activate independently and are not invoked, and can select the task themselves based on priority
Persistence - the code describing an agent runs continuously, like a process, rather than on demand
Concurrency - can interact with other agents through communication in different modes - coordination, cooperation, competition
Note 
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