A microprocessor is a central processor consisting of one or a few large-scale integrated circuit. These circuits perform the functions of control and arithmetic logic components. The microprocessor is the arithmetic control part of a microcomputer, and can perform operations such as fetching and executing instructions, as well as exchanging information with external memory and logic components. It can be combined with memory and peripheral circuit chips to form a microcomputer.
Classification of microprocessors
According to the application areas of microprocessors, microprocessors can be roughly divided into three categories: general-purpose high-performance microprocessors, embedded microprocessors and digital signal processors, microcontrollers. Generally speaking, general-purpose processors pursue high performance, they are used to run general-purpose software, equipped with complete and complex operating system; embedded microprocessors emphasize the high performance of dealing with specific application problems, mainly used to run special programs for specific areas, equipped with lightweight operating system, mainly used for cellular phones, CD players and other consumer appliances; microcontrollers are relatively low in price, in the microprocessor market Microcontroller price is relatively low, in the microprocessor market, the largest demand, mainly used in automobiles, air conditioning, automated machinery and other areas of self-control equipment.
Integrated circuit is through a special semiconductor process, the transistors, resistors and capacitors and other circuit components and the connection between them, all integrated in the same semiconductor substrate, and then finally encapsulated, made into a complete circuit. According to its different functions, it can be divided into digital and analog integrated circuits.
Divided by function:
1) digital integrated circuits:
To level high (1), low (0) two binary digits for digital operations, storage, transmission and conversion circuits. Its basic form of gate and trigger circuits, mainly counters, decoders, memories and so on.
2) analog integrated circuits: processing analog signal circuits, divided into two categories of linear and nonlinear. Linear integrated circuits, also known as operational amplifiers, used in home appliances, automatic control and medical equipment. Non-linear integrated circuits are used in signal generators, inverters and detectors.
3) Microwave integrated circuits: refers to integrated circuits with an operating frequency higher than 1000MHz, which are used in navigation, radar and satellite communications.
According to the degree of integration are:
1) small-scale integrated circuits (SSI): such as a variety of logic gate circuits, integrated flip-flops.
2) medium-scale integrated circuits (MSI): such as decoders, encoders, registers, counters.
3) Large-scale integrated circuits (LSI): such as central processing unit, memory.
4) Very Large Scale Integrated Circuits (VLSI): such as CPU (Pentium) contains 3.1 to 3.3 million components.
Integrated Circuit (IC) and microprocessor (Microprocessor) are two different electronic devices, they have some differences in function and application, how is a microprocessor different from an integrated circuit
1.Function and structure:
An integrated circuit is a circuit that integrates multiple electronic components (such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, etc.) on the same semiconductor chip. It can include various functional circuits such as amplifiers, logic gates, memories, etc., which are used to realize the functions of various electronic devices.
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit that integrates a central processing unit (CPU), a control unit, an arithmetic unit, registers, and other functional modules. It is the core component of a computer system and is used to execute instructions, perform data processing and control the operation of the computer.
- Application areas:
Integrated circuits are widely used in a variety of electronic devices, including communications equipment, consumer electronics, automotive electronics, industrial control and other fields, for the realization of a variety of circuit functions.
Microprocessors are mainly used in computer systems, including personal computers, embedded systems, industrial control systems, etc., for the realization of data processing, control and computing functions. - Functional characteristics:
Integrated circuits have diverse functions and can include a variety of electronic components and circuits for realizing different electronic functions.
Microprocessors are integrated circuits that are specialized for data processing and control, and are highly integrated and capable of performing a variety of computing tasks.
Overall, an integrated circuit is a broader concept that can include circuits for a variety of functions, while a microprocessor is a special type of integrated circuit that is specialized for data processing and control. Microprocessors are an application of integrated circuits used to realize the core functions of a computer system.
Integrated circuits serve as an integrated platform for electronic components, providing diverse functions for electronic devices; while microprocessors are the best of the best, focusing on data processing and control and becoming the core of computer systems. Both have their own specialties, and jointly promote the rapid development of electronic technology.
