MikrocontrollerAusgänge

Microcontroller (often abbreviated MCU) is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation or process within an embedded system. A typical MCU combines a processor core, memory for program code and data, and a range of peripherals—such as I/O ports, timers, and often analog-to-digital converters—on a single chip. This integration makes MCUs suitable for dedicated, cost-sensitive control tasks with modest processing needs and power constraints.

MCUs are distinguished from general-purpose microprocessors by their focus on real-time control and self-contained operation. They usually include on-chip memory (ROM or flash for firmware and RAM for data) and a set of peripherals for communication, sensing, and actuation. Architectures vary across 8-, 16-, and 32-bit cores, and may follow Harvard or Von Neumann memory layouts; many use RISC-style designs.

Historically, microcontrollers emerged in the 1970s with devices such as the Intel 8048/8051 family. Since then, ecosystems from Microchip PIC, Atmel AVR, TI MSP430, and STMicroelectronics ARM Cortex-M have provided broad performance and price options.

Typical applications include consumer electronics, automotive systems, home appliances, industrial automation, and Internet of Things devices. Development involves firmware programming in C or assembly, using in-system programming, bootloaders, and vendor toolchains. Real-time constraints and debugging support are common considerations.

Recent trends emphasize lower power consumption, integrated security features, and connectivity options such as USB, CAN, I2C, SPI, and wireless radios, enabling compact, energy-efficient control systems across many industries.