MCU stands for Microcontroller Unit, also known as microcontroller. It is an integrated circuit chip that integrates a processor core, memory, input/output interfaces, and other peripherals.MCUs are typically used in embedded systems to control and perform specific tasks.
Compared to general-purpose microprocessors (e.g., Intel's x86 family), MCUs have a smaller size and lower power consumption characteristics. They are typically used in embedded systems such as home appliances, automotive electronics, industrial controls, medical devices, smart homes, and other fields.
The main features of MCUs include:
1. Processor cores: MCUs usually integrate one or more processor cores, such as the ARM Cortex-M series. These processor cores have low power consumption and efficient instruction sets, making them suitable for embedded applications.
2. Memory: MCUs typically include flash memory (Flash) for storing program code and data, and RAM for temporary data storage.
3. Input/output interfaces: MCUs provide a variety of input/output interfaces such as general-purpose input/output pins (GPIO), analog inputs/outputs (ADC/DAC), and serial interfaces (UART, SPI, and I2C) for communicating with and controlling external devices.
4. Clock and Timer: The MCU has an internal clock source and timer for synchronization and timing operations.
5. Low power features: MCUs are usually designed in low power mode to extend battery life or save energy.
MCUs are usually programmed and developed using specific integrated development environments (IDEs) and programming languages such as C, C++, or assembly language. Developers can write code to control the functions and behavior of the MCU to achieve specific application requirements.