State TWO uses of a microcontroller in industrial control devices - NSC Electrical Technology Digital - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
State TWO uses of a microcontroller in industrial control devices.
1. Industrial instrumentation
2. Monitoring
State the basic function that random access memory (... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:State TWO uses of a microcontroller in industrial control devices - NSC Electrical Technology Digital - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
State TWO uses of a microcontroller in industrial control devices.
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Answer
Industrial instrumentation: Microcontrollers are frequently used in devices that measure and control various physical parameters like temperature, pressure, and flow.
Monitoring: They are employed to monitor systems or processes in real-time, making adjustments as necessary to maintain optimal performance.
Step 2
State the basic function that random access memory (RAM) performs.
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The basic function of RAM is to store all the data required by the CPU during the execution of programs. This allows for fast access to the data that is currently in use.
Step 3
State the basic function of a read-only memory (ROM).
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The ROM contains permanently required information, such as firmware or system boot-up instructions. It holds the necessary programs and data that the system needs to start when powered on.
Step 4
Draw the block diagram of a microcontroller, clearly indicating the THREE system buses.
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A typical microcontroller block diagram includes the CPU, Memory, and Input/Output systems, interconnected by:
Control Bus
Address Bus
Data Bus.
Step 5
Define the term interface.
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An interface is a shared boundary where two separate components of a computer system exchange information, allowing for communication between the components.
Step 6
Explain the function of a programme counter.
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The programme counter’s primary function is to keep track of the number of instructions executed, incrementing the count with each instruction processed.
Step 7
Explain the function of a memory address register.
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The memory address register (MAR) stores the address of the next instruction that the processor needs to execute, thereby facilitating the flow of instruction execution.
Step 8
State ONE type of communication protocol.
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One type of communication protocol is RS 232, which facilitates serial communication between devices.
Step 9
Define communication protocol.
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A communication protocol is a set of rules that defines how two electronic devices communicate and exchange data, ensuring data integrity and compatibility.
Step 10
Illustrate the following data transfer methods with a block diagram: 8.1 Serial
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In a serial data transfer method, 8 bits are sent one after the other, using a single wire for transmission. This makes it simpler and requires fewer physical connections.
Step 11
Illustrate the following data transfer methods with a block diagram: 8.2 Parallel
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In a parallel data transfer method, all 8 bits are transmitted simultaneously across multiple wires. This allows for faster data transfer rates compared to serial methods.
Step 12
Write out the acronym UART in full.
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UART stands for Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter.
Step 13
Explain the function of the UART.
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The UART operates as a communication peripheral that sends and receives data serially. It converts parallel data from the device into a serial format to be sent over a single wire, and does the reverse for incoming data.
Step 14
Explain the term flowchart.
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A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm, illustrating the sequential steps and decision points in a process, providing a clear visual overview.
Step 15
Define an algorithm.
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An algorithm is a clearly defined, step-by-step procedure or set of rules to be followed in order to perform a specific task or solve a problem.
Step 16
Describe an instruction cycle.
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The instruction cycle involves fetching a program instruction from memory, decoding this instruction, considering any inputs it may have, and then executing the instruction. This cycle is fundamental to the operation of a CPU.
Step 17
Study the following algorithm and draw a flow chart thereof.
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A bistable device has two stable states. It is activated by an input going high, remaining in that state until a second input resets it. After resetting, it returns to its low output state, demonstrating a basic control mechanism used in digital devices.
