Microprocessor-Controlled Devices in the Home

What is a Microprocessor?
A microprocessor is a small CPU built into a single 'chip' (see right).
• Typically, a special type of microprocessor, called a microcontroller, is
used in everyday devices.
• In a single ‘chip’, a microcontroller
contains:
1. A CPU
2. Some RAM
3. Some ROM (Used for storing the
device’s software)
• Often microcontrollers also contain ADCs
and DACs to allow easy connection to
devices such as sensors and actuators.
Using microprocessor-controlled devices in the home can have positive and
negative effects on our:
1. Lifestyle
2. leisure time
3. physical fitness
4. data security
5. social interaction.
Microprocessor-Controlled Devices in the Home
The devices fall into two categories:
1. labor-saving devices, which include
• automatic washing machines
• microwave ovens
• Cooker
• fridge/freezers
• Dishwashers

2. Other household devices, such as

• Alarm clocks
• television
• Central heating systems
• Home entertainment systems

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Advantages and disadvantages of microprocessor-controlled
labor-saving devices
Advantages and disadvantages of other
microprocessor-controlled devices
Autonomous vehicles
• Autonomous vehicles are driverless vehicles that can sense
the environment that they are in to enable them to safely
navigate roads, avoid obstacles, obey road signs, and avoid
other road users with a little human input.
• Driverless trains make considerable use of sensors, cameras,
actuators, and onboard computers/microprocessors.
• use of global positioning satellite technology, which allows
accurate changes in speed and direction to be calculated.
• actuators play a huge role here in controlling the train’s
speed, braking, and the opening and closing of the train
doors.
• Aeroplanes have used autopilots for many years to control
flights. Human pilots only take over during take-off and
landing.
Monitoring and controlling transport
Examples of where they are currently used include:
monitoring of traffic on motorways
• monitoring of traffic on motorways
• congestion zone monitoring
• automatic number plate recognition (ANPR)
• automatic control of traffic lights
Control of traffic flow
1. smart motorway where traffic flow is managed by computer. [section
of motorway that uses active traffic management].
2. two main types of devices computers use to monitor the volume of
traffic. One is rather like an induction loop
3. The system involves the use of variable speed limits and/or being able
to drive on the hard shoulder
4. the area at the side of a motorway or other road where you are allowed
to stop if your car breaks down
Monitoring and controlling transport advantages and
disadvantages:
Health risks of using IT equipment