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3 Introduction To The Microcomputer

A microcomputer consists of a microprocessor connected to memory, input/output devices, timing and control circuits, and a power supply. The basic components are the central processing unit (CPU), memory unit, input/output unit, and bus system. The bus system connects the CPU to memory and input/output elements and allows exchange of data and control signals to coordinate their functions.

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48 views

3 Introduction To The Microcomputer

A microcomputer consists of a microprocessor connected to memory, input/output devices, timing and control circuits, and a power supply. The basic components are the central processing unit (CPU), memory unit, input/output unit, and bus system. The bus system connects the CPU to memory and input/output elements and allows exchange of data and control signals to coordinate their functions.

Uploaded by

njausam55
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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4 Introduction to the Microcomputer

A microcomputer is defined as a stand-alone system based on a microprocessor. A stand-


alone system is one that is able to operate without additional equipment. A microprocessor
is the central processing unit (CPU) of a microcomputer constructed within a single chip,
and it is entirely useless on its own. To make it into a viable microcomputer, it needs to
be connected to:

1. Memory to store data and programs

2. Input/Output devices to communicate with the outside world

3. Timing and control circuits

4. A power supply

4.1 Basic Microcomputer Components

A basic microcomputer is as shown in Figure 1 below

Figure 1: Basic Microcomputer

Memory Unit stores the instructions that the computer is going to perform (programs)
and the data to be operated on by the programs. The memory unit is also used to store
intermediate and final results of operations performed during program execution. The
operation of the memory is controlled by information carried in the control bus.

Input/Output Unit contains the circuits that form an interface between the
microcomputer and the rest of the world. For some devices, data transfer with the
microcomputer is in serial form (one bit at a time) e.g. the CRT, while for others, data
transfer is in parallel form e.g. the microcomputer transfers information to a printer
one byte at a time. Examples of input devices include ADCs, Key- boards, mouse,
joystick e.t.c. Output devices include DACs, printers, LED readouts, CRTs etc.

The bus system consists of the data bus, the control bus and the address bus. These buses
connect the microprocessor to each of the memory and I/O elements so that information
can be exchanged between the microprocessor and these devices.

The Central Processing Unit (CPU)/Microprocessor performs a large number of


functions, including:

• Directing the operation of all other units in the microcomputer by providing


timing and control signals for all elements.

• Fetching instructions and data from memory.

• Transferring data to and from input/output devices.

• Performing arithmetic and logic operations on data

• Responding to input/output generated control signals such as RESET and


INTERRUPT.

4.2 The Bus System

This comprises the Address Bus, the Data Bus and the Control Bus.
The Address bus
This is a unidirectional bus, because information flows over it only in one direction - from
the CPU to the memory or I/O elements. It is used to specify the address of a memory
location or an I/O device involved in a data transfer.

The Data Bus


This is a bidirectional bus, since data can flow to or from the CPU. It is used to carry
data associated with a memory or I/O transfer. During a READ operation, the CPU’s
data pins act as inputs and receive data that has been placed on the data bus by the
memory or I/O element selected by the address on the address bus. During a WRITE
operation, the CPU’s data pins act as outputs and place data on the data bus, which
is then sent to the selected memory or I/O device.

The Control Bus


This is a set of signals that are used to synchronize the activities of the separate
microcomputer
elements. Some control signals are from the CPU to other elements to tell them what kind
of operation is in progress, e.g. READ/WRITE signal. The I/O elements can also
send control signals to the CPU e.g. RESET signal which causes the CPU to reset
to a particular starting state, INTERRUPT REQUEST signal used by I/O devices to
get attention of the CPU when it is performing other tasks.

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