Microcontroller is termed as “Computer-on-a-Chip“. It is named so, because not only the CPU, but RAM, ROM, I/O ports, Timer/Counter, Serial I/Os all are put together on a single microcontroller chip. Microcontrollers are task specific and are essentially used for making Embedded Systems.
The above image shows very few examples for the application of microcontrollers in our day-to-day used products. Actually wherever we need electronic automation, we use microcontroller. The application area of microcontrollers is so vast, probably we won’t be able to finish up listing them all. Here we will categorize different application areas of microcontrollers:
1. Consumer Electronics Products:
Toys, Cameras, Robots, Washing Machine, Microwave Ovens etc. [any automatic home appliance]
2. Instrumentation and Process Control:
Oscilloscopes, Multi-meter, Leakage Current Tester, Data Acquisition and Control etc.
3. Medical Instruments:
ECG Machine, Accu-Check etc.
4. Communication:
Cell Phones, Telephone Sets, Answering Machines etc.
5. Office Equipment:
Fax, Printers etc.
6. Multimedia Application:
Mp3 Player, PDAs etc.
7. Automobile:
Speedometer, Auto-breaking system etc.
Vlsifacts has just listed down the broad application areas. If you feel like adding more application areas of microcontrollers then put it in comment.