MCU vs MPU
A microcontroller (MCU) integrates a CPU core, memory and peripherals on one device. This makes MCUs well suited to control-oriented embedded products. A microprocessor (MPU) generally relies more heavily on external memory and companion hardware and is commonly used when higher computing capability or a richer operating system is required. The boundary is not absolute, but the architectural trade-off is important when selecting a platform.
CORE IDEA
MCU: CPU + memory + peripherals integrated
ENGINEERING VIEW
MPU: higher compute / external resources are common
WHAT TO CHECK
MCU examples: STM32, AURIX, many automotive controllers
REMEMBER
MPU examples: application processors used with Linux/Android
Engineer’s checklist
- MCU: CPU + memory + peripherals integrated
- MPU: higher compute / external resources are common
- MCU examples: STM32, AURIX, many automotive controllers
- MPU examples: application processors used with Linux/Android
// Level 0 practical notes
// Next iteration: register diagrams + full STM32 examples.