Experiment No: 03 Introduction to Arduino

Microcontroller
Lab Task
1. Write down the difference between microcontroller and microprocessor and from which
category Arduino belongs to.

Difference Between Microcontroller and Microprocessor

Microcontroller: Microprocessor:
1. Definition: Microcontroller: A microcontroller A microprocessor is a general-
is a compact integrated circuit (IC) purpose processing unit that
that includes a processor, memory, contains only the central
and input/output peripherals on a processing unit (CPU). It
single chip. It is designed to requires external components
perform specific control functions, like memory, input/output
ports, and other peripherals to
often in embedded systems, such
function. Microprocessors are
as home appliances, automotive
used in personal computers,
systems, and IoT devices. smartphones, and servers.
2. Architecture: Microcontrollers are designed with Microprocessors are generally
a built-in memory (both RAM and based on Von Neumann
ROM), along with input/output architecture, which uses a
ports, timers, and other single memory space for both
peripherals, all integrated into a program instructions and data.
single chip. They often use Harvard They need external chips for
architecture where program and memory, input/output control,
data memories are separate. etc.

3. Use Case: Designed for specific tasks in Used in systems requiring more
embedded systems. Commonly computing power and flexibility,
used in devices like washing such as computers, laptops, and
machines, microwave ovens, and mobile devices, where tasks are
IoT devices where tasks are dynamic and may change over
repetitive and predefined. time.

4. Power Low power consumption due to its Higher power consumption

Consumption: integration of all components on a because it requires multiple
single chip and optimized for external components like RAM,
specific tasks. ROM, and peripherals, and is
designed for more complex,
general-purpose tasks.
5. Cost: Usually cheaper as it integrates all More expensive due to the
necessary components on a single need for external components
chip. and its general-purpose nature.
6. Performance: Performance is optimized for Higher performance for
 specific tasks, typically operating at general-purpose computing,
lower clock speeds to save power. capable of running at higher
clock speeds and handling more
complex tasks.

Assessment

1. Study 5 different type of Arduino boards (other than discussed in labs) and write down

difference between each other.

Arduino Category

Arduino belongs to the category of microcontrollers. Most Arduino boards, such as the Arduino Uno,
use an Atmel AVR microcontroller (e.g., ATmega328). These microcontrollers integrate a CPU,
memory (both flash and RAM), and input/output peripherals into a single chip, which is characteristic
of a microcontroller.

Key Features of Arduino (Microcontroller-based platform):

 Integrated Peripherals: Arduino has built-in timers, ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter),

communication interfaces like UART, SPI, and I2C, all within the microcontroller chip.

 Low Power: Designed for projects that involve embedded systems where power efficiency is
crucial.

 Flash Memory: Stores the program code that can be uploaded via the Arduino IDE.

 Real-Time Control: Since it is designed for embedded systems, it can handle real-time control
tasks effectively (e.g., controlling sensors, motors, etc.).

Here are five different types of Arduino boards, other than the commonly discussed Arduino Uno:

1. Arduino Nano

 Size: Smaller form factor than the Uno, making it ideal for compact projects.

 Microcontroller: ATmega328 (similar to the Uno).

 Operating Voltage: 5V.

 Memory: 32 KB flash memory, 2 KB SRAM, 1 KB EEPROM.

 I/O Pins: 14 digital input/output pins, 8 analog input pins.

 USB Interface: Mini-USB.

 Special Feature: Compact size and breadboard-friendly, ideal for projects with space
constraints.
  Differences: Nano is much smaller than Uno, and lacks a barrel jack for power input, but has
the same functionality in terms of I/O and memory.

2. Properties of Arduino Mega 2560

 Size: Larger than the Uno.

 Microcontroller: ATmega2560.

 Operating Voltage: 5V.

 Memory: 256 KB flash memory, 8 KB SRAM, 4 KB EEPROM.

 I/O Pins: 54 digital input/output pins, 16 analog input pins.

 USB Interface: Standard USB.

 Special Feature: Large number of I/O pins and memory, making it suitable for complex
projects requiring more peripherals.

 Differences: Much larger than the Uno, with significantly more I/O pins and memory, ideal
for more complex projects.

3. Arduino Leonardo

 Size: Similar to Arduino Uno.

 Microcontroller: ATmega32u4.

 Operating Voltage: 5V.

 Memory: 32 KB flash memory, 2.5 KB SRAM, 1 KB EEPROM.

 I/O Pins: 20 digital input/output pins, 12 analog input pins.

 USB Interface: Micro-USB.

 Special Feature: The Leonardo can emulate a USB HID (Human Interface Device), such as a
keyboard or mouse.

 Differences: Unlike Uno, Leonardo has built-in USB support, which allows it to act as a USB
keyboard/mouse without additional hardware.

4. Arduino Due

 Size: Similar to Mega 2560.

 Microcontroller: Atmel SAM3X8E ARM Cortex-M3 (32-bit).

 Operating Voltage: 3.3V (Note: 5V can damage the board).

 Memory: 512 KB flash memory, 96 KB SRAM.

 I/O Pins: 54 digital input/output pins, 12 analog input pins.

 USB Interface: Micro-USB.

 Special Feature: 32-bit processor, faster than typical 8-bit Arduinos, ideal for high-
performance tasks.
  Differences: The first Arduino to feature a 32-bit ARM microcontroller, offering much more
processing power and memory than typical 8-bit Arduino boards like the Uno or Mega.

5. Arduino Pro Mini

 Size: Smaller than the Nano.

 Microcontroller: ATmega328.

 Operating Voltage: Available in two versions – 5V and 3.3V.

 Memory: 32 KB flash memory, 2 KB SRAM, 1 KB EEPROM.

 I/O Pins: 14 digital input/output pins, 6 analog input pins.

 USB Interface: None (requires an external USB-to-serial adapter for programming).

 Special Feature: Ultra-compact and minimalist design for permanent installation in

embedded systems.

 Differences: Unlike other Arduino boards, the Pro Mini lacks a built-in USB interface, making
it suitable for permanent, space-constrained projects where programming isn't frequently
needed.

Key Differences:
Arduino Size Microcontrolle Voltage Memory Digital Analog USB Special
Board r (Flash/SRAM I/O Pins Interface Feature
) Pins

ATmega328 5V Large
256KB / Standard memory,
Nano Small 54 16
8KB USB many I/O
pins
Large
Mega ATmega256 256KB / Standard memory,
Large 5V 54 16
2560 0 8KB USB many I/O
pins
Leonard Mediu ATmega32u 32KB / Micro- USB HID
5V 20 12
o m 4 2.5KB USB support
32-bit
ARM 512KB / Micro- ARM
Due Large 3.3V 54 12
Cortex-M3 96KB USB processo
r
Ultra-
compact,
None
5V/ 32KB / requires
Pro Mini Tiny ATmega328 14 6 (External
3.3V 2KB external
)
USB
adapter

Each board has its unique advantages based on the requirements of the project in terms of size, I/O,
performance, and features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be said that microcontrollers and microprocessors do not have only the physical
differences of being smaller or larger, but the architecture, functionality, and application vary
considerably between the two. Microcontrollers based Arduino boards open a variety of possibilities
for embedded systems. There is an array from the smallest Arduino Nano to the largest powerful
Arduino Due. There are factors such as size, memory, I/O pins, and voltage that should determine the
choice of an Arduino board. Finally, knowing the differences between microcontrollers and
microprocessors helps to plan and implement projects with microcontrollers in a more effective
manner. For the successful completion of any project, it is important to choose the right types of
Arduino boards as it helps in the smooth and successful completion of the work.