What is the difference between microcontroller and fpga

Another benefit of FPGAs is their parallel processing ability, or parallel execution of identical operations. Because of the hundreds or thousands of CLBs processing synchronously, applications including image processing or artificial intelligence are more feasible. Alternatively, microcontrollers perform sequential processing, meaning it reads and processes each line of the program one after the other, which is less powerful in comparison. While both can be used as the sole processor, it is also possible to implement both a microcontroller and an FPGA within a design concurrently.

For example, the microcontroller can be used to perform complex controls while the FPGA performs the functions and does the heavy lifting. Microcontroller-based systems often use I2C and SPI protocols as a means for communication between devices.

Certain tools, including host adapters and protocol analyzers, allow engineers to test systems and gain visibility into the bus. Host adapters in particular allow the engineer to emulate master and slave devices and prototype entire systems. By using the tool as a master, users can evaluate peripherals such as sensors and memory chips, and as a slave can test commands sent from MCUs. With its FPGA-based platform, users can select from a range of I2C and SPI applications, that provide varying levels of speeds and other functionalities to fit a variety of project requirements.

As an I2C device, users can signal up to 3. Protocol analyzers are useful tools to capture and monitor data on the bus, as well as uncover bus errors and their sources. Total Phase. Register Login. Programmable devices such as FPGA, microcontroller, and microprocessor are the most powerful tools available to an electronics engineer today for an Embedded System Design. Knowledge on these devices is essential to a professional, student or hobbyist alike. Working on FPGA or Microcontroller programming allows engineers to completely understand the world of electronic programming.

Most of the consumer electronic products currently are designed with microcontroller or FPGA as its central processing unit. Electronic devices depend on the central processing unit CPU or the control unit. The CPU is like the heart and soul of the whole device. The CPU performs functions like fetch, decode, execute and store.

In some cases, the CPU acts as the sole point of communication between the input and the output devices. The overall performance of the device relies on the performance of the CPU. The selection of a particular IC depends on the application requirement, cost, and performance.

Microprocessor is an electronic integrated circuit component that works as a CPU alone. Microprocessor is the basic controlling unit that can be used in an electronic design. If the application is extremely complex and requires a special central control unit, microprocessors are preferred.

FPGAs take a considerably longer time to set-up while there are ready built microcontrollers being sold for specific uses 4. Building devices with FPGAs are more costly than microcontrollers. Cite APA 7 , l. Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. MLA 8 , lanceben. I savour, cause I discovered just what I was looking for.

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