What are Microprocessors?
Microprocessors are small CPUs that are responsible for performing instructions and operations in electronic devices and computing systems. That is why they are considered an integral part of the electronic systems. In layman's terms, they are the brains of the electronic devices which control the overall function and execution of the devices in which they are implanted. Ultimately, microprocessors are present in all electronic devices, including gaming consoles, computers, laptops, smartphones, smart home appliances, and self-driving cars.
History of Microprocessors:
Intel and Motorola made the first microprocessors to be ever developed. These were small and were able to perform easy functions. With time these devices have become exponentially fast and powerful. Now microprocessors are able to perform billions of operations in seconds, which has shaped the evolution of modern devices and will continue to do so in future as well.
Understanding What are Microprocessors and how they evolved from basic designs to the complex form today, lets us understand the application of microprocessors in handheld devices, computers, high-performance computing (supercomputers), appliances and more.
Applications of Microprocessors
The applications of microprocessors can be found in all sorts of domains. They are found in all types of devices and their usage is increasing day by day. Microprocessors are used in consumer electronics like smartphones, TVs, and Digital cameras. They are also used in the automotive in the engine, transmission and brakes. In the medical industry, they are found in the pacemakers, the glucose meters and other devices to measure the patient's health. They have also found uses in Industrial control systems, aerospace and defence along with communication and security.
Detailed Applications of microprocessors are given below:
- Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices are running based on microprocessors. They make the devices function smoothly by executing instructions, processing data and performing various operations. Besides smartphones, they are also used in computers
- It is used in cars and other automobiles in order to control a wide range of functions such as engine management, brake control and entertainment and navigation functions.
- It is also used in computers to store and process data.
- Machines like lifts, traffic lights, fuel and furnace control in power plants also use microprocessors.
- For entertainment purposes in the form of gaming, photography with digital cameras, and robots-like devices and machines run with the use of microprocessors.
- Microprocessors with a single chip are known as microcontrollers, which are used for automatic control. It is useful in order to check the order of already running things like temp of the burning furnace, the speed of the running car and the pressure of a boiler.
- These microprocessors are also used in aircraft navigation, guidance, systems, and flight control systems.
- Plays an important role in server management which holds and stores a lot of information.
- The telephone industry is the most significant in communication. Microprocessors are utilized in this industry in various devices such as modems, digital telephone sets, and telephone exchanges.
- Teleconferencing is now feasible thanks to the usage of microprocessors in satellite communication and television.
- The office environment has altered as a result of software packages and microprocessor-based systems. Systems using microprocessors are used for word processing, spreadsheet operations, storage, and other tasks.
In conclusion: Microprocessors have a wide usage whether it is computers, smartphones, or washing machines. The development of microprocessors has led to easy life and more complicated functions be done in less time.
