4

Inside the CPU

Summary
The criteria for the choice of a CPU are briefly set out. After an introduction to the nature of a program, the functions of the units within the CPU are discussed in detail. Measures to increase operating speeds are discussed.

When we are choosing a CPU for a microelectronic system, there are a number of points to consider:

Embedded system: when a microcontroller system is built as part of a larger system and not as a separate unit, we say is it embedded.

  • Microprocessor or microcontroller? If we are building a system that is required to process a large amount of data very quickly, then we choose a microprocessor. We can back up its powerful features with plenty of memory and a wide range of peripherals and ...

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