Physical Computing: Microcontroller

What is a Microcontroller?

Microcontroller - is a small computer on an integrated circuit (IC) which contains memory, a processor and can be programmed to function with inputs and outputs. In ordinary electronics a microcontroller would usually perform a single task. It has all the same fundamental parts of a computer (CPU, Memory, I/O).

Examples of a Microcontroller is an 'Arduino Board.'

Examples of past Microcontrollers :

- 1974 : Microcontroller 'TMS 1000' starts to sell. The TMS 1000 was very difficult to re-program as it had to be wiped using ultraviolet light. One example of where it can be found is the 'Speak & Spell' device:

                                                                       TMS 1000

                                                              Speak & Spell 

- 1993 - Atmel introduces programmable chip with FLASH, PIC 16C84 with EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). This microcontroller needs a programmer to upload a new code so that the board will function.:

                                                                  PIC 16C84  

- 2005 - Developed in 2005 by the Interaction Design Institute Ivrea in Italy: 'Arduino.' There is a program called Blink, which is used to program the board to do whatever action the programmer has decided.

                                                                Arduino Board

Where are Microcontrollers found?



Microcontrollers are found in everyday, commonly used devices such as mobile phones, fridge, cameras, microwaves and electronic toys.




What is open Source?



Open source is the idea of something being open for anyone to use through a free licence. This includes; software, hardware and design (open design). Traditionally the term has been used in regards to a computer program where the source code has been made for anyone to use. 
Open source is a development methodology and free software is seen as a social movement. The free software is an ethical imperative, essential respect is given for the users freedom.





What is Open Source Hardware?


Open source hardware is part of the open design movement, the information about the hardware is open and available. This may include; schematics, OCB layout, mechanical drawings, or a software which works with it is released as open sourced as well (e.g. Arduino).