Microcontrollers, Microprocessor, FPGA Modules

‌1. What are Microcontrollers (MCUs)?‌

‌Definition‌: A microcomputer system that integrates the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM/ROM), counter, I/O interface, etc. on a single chip, commonly known as a “single-chip microcomputer”.

‌Features‌:

‌High integration‌: All functional modules are built-in, and no external memory is required.

‌Low power consumption and low cost‌: Suitable for resource-constrained scenarios.

‌Real-time control‌: Mostly run bare metal or real-time operating system (RTOS).

‌Typical Applications‌: Embedded control scenarios such as home appliance control (such as smart sockets), automotive electronics, industrial sensors, simple wearable devices, etc.

‌2. What are Microprocessors (MPUs)?‌

‌Definition‌: A processor core that focuses on high-speed computing, which requires external RAM, Flash, and other components to form a complete system.

‌Features‌:

‌Strong computing power‌: Suitable for complex computing and big data processing.

‌System scalability‌: Supports running non-real-time operating systems such as Linux/Android.

‌Typical Applications‌: Smartphones, industrial control systems, smart routers, and other devices that require high-performance computing.

‌3. What are FPGA Modules (Field Programmable Gate Array Modules)?‌

‌Definition‌: Integrated circuits that can reconfigure logic circuits through hardware programming, without fixed functions.

‌Features‌:

‌Hardware programmable‌: Real-time configuration of digital circuits to achieve customized logic functions.

‌Parallel processing advantages‌: Suitable for high-speed signal processing tasks.

‌Typical Applications‌: Communication baseband processing, video image acceleration, industrial protocol conversion, chip prototype verification, and other highly customized scenarios.

4. Comparison of the Core Differences among MCU, MPU, and FPGA‌‌