Billions of Hidden Microprocessors
Home appliances
Household appliances, security systems, and entertainment devices contain multiple microcontrollers. The chip in this coffee maker delivers a precise volume of water at the perfect brewing temperature.
Billions of Hidden Microprocessors
Many people know that microprocessors are the “brains” in their computers. Few know that the great bulk of microprocessors—99%—are used outside computers.
Highly integrated single-chip microprocessors, called microcontrollers, are programmed for tasks in airplanes, appliances, autos, cell phones, toys, and more. They have not just revolutionized computers. They’ve revolutionized everything.
Entertainment systems
The iPod shuffle music player uses a microprocessor to search for favorite songs and organize them into playlists.
View Artifact DetailMobile phone
Microprocessors embedded in smartphones allow them to function as address books, calculators, cameras, portable internet web browsers and more.
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Most of the motors, controls, safety devices, entertainment and convenience features in modern passenger cars are managed by microcontrollers.
View Artifact DetailAircraft controls
A modern airplane’s instruments, equipment and structure is monitored and controlled by multiple computers and microcontrollers.
View Artifact DetailElectronic toys
This Sony Aibo toy contains a microcontroller that recognizes human speech so it can respond to spoken commands.
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