Department of
Robotics And Automation
Course Name: Microprocessors and Microcontrollers
Course Code: 2312303 Type of Course: PCC
CCE : 20 M ISE : 20 M ESE: 60 M Total: 100 M
Total Credits: 3
Unit I : Advanced Microprocessors in Robotics and Automation
Overview of Microprocessors: Architecture and Operation
Overview of Microprocessors :
A microprocessor is like the brain of a computer or any smart
machine. It processes information and controls tasks by following
instructions.
In robotics and automation, microprocessors act as the control center
that reads data from sensors, makes decisions, and sends commands to
motors or other devices.
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Microprocessor Architecture (Basic Structure) :
The main parts are:
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):
Does all the math (like adding, subtracting) and logical operations (like
comparing numbers).
For example, in a robot, ALU might help decide if an object is closer or
farther by comparing sensor values.
Control Unit (CU):
Tells the microprocessor what to do step-by-step. It interprets instructions from
a program and directs the other parts.
In robotics, the CU makes sure motors move in the correct order based on
sensor inputs.
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Microprocessor Architecture (Basic Structure) :
Registers:
Small, very fast storage inside the microprocessor for temporary data and
instructions.
Helps the microprocessor work quickly without waiting for slower memory.
Memory Interface:
Connects the microprocessor to external memory (like RAM) where programs
and data are stored.
Input / Output (I/O) Ports:
Allow the microprocessor to communicate with sensors (input) and motors or
displays (output).
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How a Microprocessor Operates (Basic Operation Cycle) :
Fetch:
The microprocessor gets an instruction from memory (like "move forward"
or "check sensor").
Decode:
It understands what the instruction means.
Execute:
It performs the action, like adding numbers or turning on a motor.
Store:
It saves the result if needed.
This cycle repeats very fast, letting robots respond quickly to their environment.
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Advanced Microprocessors in Robotics and Automation :
More Powerful: Advanced microprocessors can handle complex tasks, like
vision processing, path planning, and decision-making, all essential for modern
robots.
Multiple Cores: Many have several processing units (cores) to do several tasks
at the same time, making robots faster and smarter.
Specialized Modules: They may include extra parts like Digital Signal
Processors (DSPs) for handling audio or video, or AI accelerators for machine
learning.
Real-Time Operation: Advanced microprocessors can work in real-time,
meaning they process inputs and react immediately, which is crucial in
automation where timing matters a lot.
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Why Is This Important?
In robotics and automation:
The microprocessor controls how a robot moves, sees, and interacts.
Advanced microprocessors make robots more efficient, flexible, and intelligent.
Understanding microprocessor architecture helps engineers design better
robotic systems.
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Introduction to x86/x64 and ARM Cortex-A Series Processors :
What Are x86/x64 Processors?
The x86 and x64 architectures refer to the two most widely-used types of
instruction set architectures (ISA) created by Intel and AMD.
An ISA specifies the behavior of machine code and defines how the software
controls the CPU. ISA is the hardware and software interface, defining what the
CPU can do and how.
x86 is a type of ISA for computer processors originally developed by Intel in
1978. The x86 architecture is based on Intel's 8086 (hence the name) and its
8088 variant. At first, it was a 16-bit instruction set for 16-bit processors, and
later it grew to 32-bit instruction sets.
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What Are x86/x64 Processors?
The number of bits signifies how much information the CPU can process per
cycle. For example, a 32-bit CPU transfers up to 32 bits of data per clock cycle.
Due to its capability of running on almost any computer, from laptops, home
PCs, and servers, x86 architecture has become popular among numerous
microprocessor manufacturers.
The x86 architecture's most significant limitation is that it can handle a
maximum of 4096 MB of RAM. Since the total number of supported
combinations is 2^32 (4,294,967,295), the 32-bit processor has 4.29 billion
memory locations. Each location stores one byte of data, equating to
approximately 4GB of accessible memory.
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What Are x86/x64 Processors?
x64 (short for x86-64) is an instruction set architecture based on x86, extended
to enable 64-bit code. It was first released in 2000, introducing two modes of
operation - the 64-bit mode and the compatibility mode, which allows users to
run 16-bit and 32-bit applications as well.
The x64 architecture supports much greater amounts of virtual and physical
memory than the x86 architecture, allowing applications to store large data
amounts in memory.
Additionally, x64 expands the number of general-purpose registers to 16,
providing further enhancements and functionality.
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What Are x86/x64 Processors?
The x64 architecture can utilize a total of 2^64 bytes, equaling to 16 billion
gigabytes (16 exabytes) of memory. The much greater resource utilization
makes it suitable for powering supercomputers and machines that need access
to vast resources.
The x64 architecture allows the CPU to process 64-bits of data per clock cycle,
much more than the x86 one.
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x86 vs. x64
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ISA x86 x64
Initial release Introduced in 1978. Introduced in 2000.
Creator Intel AMD
Origin Based on the Intel 8086 processor. Created as an extension of the x86 architecture.
Bit amount 32-bit architecture. 64-bit architecture.
Addressable space 4 GB. 16 EB.
RAM limit 4 GB (actual usable RAM 3.2 GB). 16 billion GB.
Allows high-speed processing of large sets of
Speed Slower and less powerful compared to x64.
integers; inherently faster than x86.
Supports parallel transmits of only 32-bits via a 32- Supports parallel transmits of larger chunks of data
Data transmission
bit bus in a single go. via the 64-bit data bus.
Storage Utilizes more registers to split and store data. Stores large data amounts with fewer registers.
Application support No support for 64-bit apps and programs. Supports both 64-bit and 32-bit apps and programs.
Windows XP Professional, Windows Vista,
OS support Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, Linux. Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Linux, Mac
OS.
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Why are x86/x64 processors important in robotics?
They are powerful and capable of running complex software, including
artificial intelligence, image processing, and simulation tools used in robots.
Because of their high performance, x86/x64 processors are often used in
robotics applications that require heavy computation, like autonomous vehicles
or industrial robots with advanced vision systems.
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What Are ARM Cortex-A Series Processors?
ARM Cortex-A processors come from the ARM architecture, which is
different from x86.
ARM processors are known for being energy-efficient (they use less power)
while still offering good performance.
Cortex-A series is the high-performance family of ARM processors designed
for complex tasks (like running operating systems and apps).
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Why are ARM Cortex-A processors important in robotics?
They are widely used in mobile robots, drones, and embedded systems
because they provide a good balance between performance and power
consumption.
ARM Cortex-A processors are often inside smart devices and robots that need
to work on batteries for long times.
Many advanced robotic platforms use ARM processors for handling tasks like
sensor data processing and running control algorithms.
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Comparing x86/x64 and ARM Cortex-A in Robotics and
Automation
Feature x86/x64 ARM Cortex-A
Generally higher raw Good performance
Performance
computing power with energy efficiency
Much lower, great for
Power Consumption Usually higher battery-powered
robots
Desktop, industrial Mobile robots, drones,
Common Usage
robots, servers embedded systems
Supports Windows, Supports Linux,
Software Ecosystem
Linux, many apps Android, real-time OS
Larger and often more Smaller, cheaper, and
Cost and Size
expensive more flexible
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How Do These Processors Fit into Advanced Robotics?
x86/x64 processors power robots that need to run complex computations, such
as self-driving cars analyzing huge sensor data or factory robots controlling
multiple processes.
ARM Cortex-A processors are perfect for smaller, energy-sensitive robots like
drones, delivery robots, or wearable devices used in automation systems.
Both types can work together—for example, a robot could use an ARM
processor for sensing and movement control and an x86 processor for heavy AI
calculations.
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ARM processor and its Features :
ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) processors are a family of CPUs based on
the RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) architecture.
Originally developed by Acorn Computers in the 1980s, ARM processors are
now designed by Arm Holdings and widely licensed by other companies (like
Apple, Qualcomm, Samsung, etc.) for use in their chips.
It is a widely-used computer chip known for its efficiency and versatility.
Designed by ARM Limited using a streamlined RISC architecture these
processors are licensed to various companies rather than manufactured directly.
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ARM processor and its Features :
ARM unique business model allows tech companies to customize and build
processors for diverse devices, from smartphones and tablets to computers and
smart devices.
Their exceptional balance of processing power and energy efficiency has made
them the preferred choice for mobile computing, enabling longer battery life
without compromising performance.
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Common ARM Processor Families :
Cortex-M Series : For microcontrollers (low power, real-time control)
Cortex-R Series : For real-time systems (e.g., automotive, robotics)
Cortex-A Series : For application processors (e.g., smartphones, tablets)
Neoverse : For infrastructure and cloud computing
Apple Silicon (e.g., M1, M2) : Custom ARM-based processors for Macs
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Advantages of ARM processor :
Low Power Consumption : Ideal for battery-powered and mobile devices.
High Performance per Watt : Efficient processing with minimal energy use.
Compact and Simple Design : Reduces manufacturing costs and chip size.
RISC Architecture : Simplifies instructions, enabling faster execution.
Wide Ecosystem Support : Extensive software and development tools.
Scalability : Used in a variety of devices from microcontrollers to
smartphones.
Cost-Effective Licensing Model : Enables broad adoption by manufacturers.
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Disadvantages of ARM processor :
Incompatible with x86 Systems : They cannot natively run x86 based
software, limiting compatibility with Windows systems.
Limited High-End Performance : ARM processors generally offer lower
performance compared to high end x86 CPUs.
Requires Skilled Programming : Programming for ARM can be complex and
requires experienced developers.
Less Efficient Instruction Scheduling : ARM is less efficient in handling
instruction scheduling, which may affect performance in complex tasks.
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Difference between ARM and x86 :
ARM x86
ARM uses Reduced Instruction Set Computing Architecture
x86 uses Complex Instruction Set Architecture (CISC).
(RISC).
It works by executing complex instructions at once and it
ARM works by executing single instruction per cycle.
requires more than one cycle.
Performance can be optimized by a Software-based approach. Performance can be optimized by Hardware based approach.
It require fewer registers, but they require more memory. It processors require less memory, but more registers.
Execution is faster in ARM Processes. Execution is slower in an x86 Processor.
ARM Processor work by generating multiple instructions from a x86 Processors work by executing complex statements at a
complex instruction and they are executed separately. single time.
They use the memory which is already available to them. They require some extra memory for calculations.
They are deployed in mobiles which deal with the consumption They are deployed in Servers, Laptops where performance and
of power, speed, and size. stability matter.
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