Description of Microcontrollers, Microprocessor, FPGA Modules

Products in the modular embedded processor family integrate a microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor, FPGA, or other such computational device together with support components such as memory, power management, timing, and other items necessary for their operation. They are suitable and intended for integration into an end product, and offer product developers access to modern computational and interface capabilities without necessity of high speed hardware design experience.

Microcontroller (MCU)

A microcontroller is a small, all-in-one chip that’s made to handle specific tasks in devices like home appliances, car systems, and electronics. It has everything it needs—like a processor (CPU), memory (RAM and Flash), and input/output pins—on a single chip. Microcontrollers are great for jobs that don’t need a ton of power but need to work fast and consistently.

Microprocessor

A microprocessor is a more powerful chip that works as the main brain of computers and other complicated systems. Unlike microcontrollers, it doesn’t have built-in memory or extra features, so it needs other parts to work. Microprocessors are really good at handling complex tasks and running multiple things at once, which is why they’re used in computers, smartphones, and high-tech devices.

FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) Modules

An FPGA is a hardware device that you can program to do custom digital tasks. Unlike microcontrollers and microprocessors that follow set instructions, FPGAs are super flexible and can be reconfigured to do specific jobs by changing their internal wiring. They’re often used for tasks that need lots of processing power at the same time, like image processing, communication systems, or speeding up certain operations. FPGAs are perfect when performance and customization are key.