Microcontrollers and Microprocessors in UET 102 Module 4

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding microcontrollers, microprocessors, the Arduino platform, and programming basics relevant to the upcoming exam.

What is a microcontroller unit (MCU)?

A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system.

What components are typically found in a microcontroller?

A microcontroller typically contains a CPU, memory (RAM and ROM), and programmable input/output peripherals.

What is the difference between microcontrollers and microprocessors?

Microcontrollers integrate a CPU, RAM, ROM, and I/O on a single chip, while microprocessors require external components like RAM and ROM.

What is the purpose of the Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) in a microcontroller?

The DAC converts digital signals into analog signals for controlling analog devices.

What does GPIO stand for, and what is its function?

GPIO stands for General Purpose Input/Output; it allows a microcontroller to interact with external components.

What is ROM in the context of a microcontroller?

ROM (Read-Only Memory) stores permanent instructions and data that cannot be modified during normal operation.

How does a microcontroller process data?

The CPU of a microcontroller processes data by executing instructions, performing calculations, and managing I/O operations.

What is the significance of RAM in a microcontroller?

RAM (Random Access Memory) serves as temporary data storage used during program execution.

What is the clock in a microcontroller, and why is it important?

The clock generates regular signals to synchronize the microcontroller's operations and determine instruction processing speed.

What is the role of the Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) in a microcontroller?

The ADC converts analog signals into digital values that the microcontroller can process.

What is an Arduino, and what makes it user-friendly?

Arduino is an open-source computing platform designed for creating interactive physical objects, enabling those without extensive programming knowledge to use it.

What are the two main functions in an Arduino sketch?

The two main functions are setup() for initial setup and loop() for ongoing task execution.

What communicates between an Arduino and external devices?

The digital and analog pins facilitate communication between the Arduino and external sensors, actuators, or other components.

How does Arduino represent digital signals?

Digital signals are represented as binary states, either 'on' (HIGH) or 'off' (LOW).

What is serial communication in the context of microcontrollers?

Serial communication allows the microcontroller to communicate with other devices by sending data sequentially over a single communication line.

What are the differences between SPI and I2C communication protocols?

SPI typically uses separate lines for sending and receiving data, providing higher speeds, while I2C shares a data line and supports multiple devices on a two-wire bus.

What is the primary language used for Arduino programming?

Arduino uses a simplified version of C/C++ known as the Arduino programming language.

What does the term 'sketch' refer to in Arduino programming?

A 'sketch' is the code written for Arduino, consisting of setup() and loop() functions.

What is the purpose of libraries in Arduino sketches?

Libraries provide prewritten code that can be easily integrated into sketches to add functionality.