Microprocessors and sensors Flashcards
what is a microprocessor
small processor that contains most/all of a CPU function on a single chip or an integrated circuit (IC)
what does a microprocessor perform
performs arithmetic, logic operations through the use of registers
what are microprocessors
microprocessors improve control systems
how to microprocessors improve control systems
they process input data much faster than humans do and they react to the changes in the input quickly
they are error-free compared to manual systems
they operate throughout the year with little to no off time and in conditions that are harsh for humans
what is general purpose
general purpose microprocessors are capable of running a wide range of different programs, integrated into a larger system
what are embedded microprocessors
pre-programmed systems that follow specific algorithms - cannot function in unexpected conditions
role of sensors in embedded microprocessors
converts continuous analogue signals into discrete digital signals using an ADC - signals can be read as input from microprocessors
what are microcontrollers
stand-alone chips that may include the main elements of a larger system (eg. RAM and ROM)
what do microcontrollers do
perform precise tasks - don’t need a whole computer system
what is graphics processing unit (GPU)
includes hardware that allows for faster handling of graphics related to maths
what properties do sensors share
accuracy
range
resolution
what characteristics should sensors have
should be insensitive to other physical conditions that may affect their reading
shouldn’t influence the measured property in any way
list 9 sensor categories
motion
optical/image
temperature
sound
vibration
active pixel sensor
infrared
pressure
proximity
what is a transducer
device that converts one form of energy to another
how is transducer used with sensors
in the process of sensing physical quantities using sensors and transforming them into analogue signals, a conversion takes place
