What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Microprocessor Versus Microcontroller?

Both a Microprocessor and a Microcontroller have their own jobs to do which are paramount in the make up of a computer system. Therefore, both micros are needed, which is why it could may be difficult trying to muster up a list of pros and cons.

• A Miroprocessor:

A Microprocessor is a chip placed into computer devices which can be considered the 'decision maker'. Some might say the 'brains'. Within your computer's motherboard, there is a Microprocessor, and surrounding it is a whole host of support components which aid the Microprocessor. It has many jobs, but some include reading and writing to the computer's memory, interpret instructions sent from the memory, perform the task required and spend a lot of time communicating with other computer parts, telling them what to do and/or what to display.

• A Microcontroller:

A Microcontroller is in fact a computer. It's that simple. They are embedded inside other devices and their job is to run one task and one sole program.

When looking at advantages and disadvantages of a Microprocessor and a Microcontroller, you could go by the architecture of both of the devices. As Microcontrollers do a lot more work as they are in themselves, a computer, a Microcontroller is made up of a much more complex make-up and would very likely take a lot more time to create. It's functionality is also quite difficult to create.

However, Microprocessors require a lot of external controllers in order for it to work to its full capacity, whereas Microcontrollers house all of its controllers inside, depending on fewer external systems or controllers.