Microcontroller
From ScienceZero
A microcontroller (MCU) is a computer-on-a-chip used to control electronic devices. It is a type of microprocessor emphasizing self-sufficiency and cost-effectiveness. A typical microcontroller contains all the memory, peripherals and input/output interfaces needed, whereas a general purpose microprocessor requires additional chips to provide these functions.
Many things that once were built using a few simple digital integrated circuits are now manufactured using a microcontroller and a bit of software to make it emulate the original circuit.
Some common microcontrollers:
