6.1 Define a microcontroller - NSC Electrical Technology Digital - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 6
6.1 Define a microcontroller.
6.2 Explain the principle of operation of a microcontroller.
6.3 Answer the following questions with reference to the RS-232 communic... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6.1 Define a microcontroller - NSC Electrical Technology Digital - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Define a microcontroller.
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Answer
A microcontroller is a single chip integrated circuit that performs dedicated tasks as an independent device. It contains a processor, memory, and input/output peripherals designed for specific control applications.
Step 2
Explain the principle of operation of a microcontroller.
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The microcontroller operates by executing a sequence of instructions stored in its memory. It sends an address to the RAM to retrieve data, processes that data, and communicates with input/output devices. The CPU controls the timing and sequence of operations to manage different tasks efficiently.
Step 3
State the operating voltages for logic 1 and logic 0.
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Operating voltage for logic 1 is typically between +3 V and +5 V, while for logic 0, it is generally between -3 V and -25 V.
Step 4
Give TWO examples where the RS-232 can be used.
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In low-data-rate short-range applications such as printers and modems.
In data projectors and CNC machine tools.
Step 5
Label the following blocks in FIGURE 6.4: (a) A
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A is labeled as CPU.
Step 6
Label the following blocks in FIGURE 6.4: (b) B
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B is labeled as Memory.
Step 7
Identify the following bus connections: (a) Y
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Y is identified as Address bus.
Step 8
Identify the following bus connections: (b) Z
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Z is identified as Data bus.
Step 9
State the purpose of the control bus.
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The control bus is used to send control instructions to both memory and input/output units, coordinating their operations to ensure they work in sync.
Step 10
Label the following blocks in FIGURE 6.5: (a) A
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A is labeled as Transmitter (Sender).
Step 11
Label the following blocks in FIGURE 6.5: (b) B
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B is labeled as Receiver.
Step 12
Explain how data is transmitted from block A to block B in FIGURE 6.5.
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Data is sent from block A in a long stream of bits or as a block of data where each bit follows the previous one. At the receiving end, these bits are counted and reconstructed into bytes. Strict timing is maintained between sender and receiver using a common clock pulse, ensuring accurate data transfer.
Step 13
Define communication protocol in a microcontroller.
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A communication protocol in a microcontroller is a set of rules and regulations that govern how electronic devices exchange data and information.
Step 14
Show the difference between simplex communication and duplex communication.
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Simplex communication is one-way communication. In the diagram:
Transmitter -> Receiver
Duplex communication allows for two-way interaction:
Transmitter <-> Receiver
In half-duplex, devices take turns to communicate.
Step 15
Explain the difference between half-duplex communication and full-duplex communication.
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Half-duplex communication allows two devices to take turns in sending and receiving messages, whereas full-duplex communication enables both devices to transmit and receive simultaneously.
Step 16
Define Program.
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A program is a sequence of instructions that tell a computer (PIC) how to perform a specific task.
Step 17
Define Flow diagram.
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A flow diagram is a visual representation of the steps and decisions needed to complete a process.
Step 18
Design a flow diagram for a home security system with TWO sensors.
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The flow diagram starts with the system checking Sensor 1. If activated, the alarm is turned on. If not, it checks Sensor 2. If Sensor 2 detects motion, the alarm is activated. Upon activation, the system also monitors for a reset command, with the option to deactivate the alarm when necessary.
