Microprocessors (MPU) are programmable embedded computing devices that execute software instructions to provide general-purpose processing and system control. In the Embedded Processors & Controllers category, MPUs typically serve as the central processing element of an embedded system, coordinating data handling and overall operation.
Unlike microcontrollers, which commonly integrate processing and a broader set of on-chip system functions, an MPU is primarily focused on CPU-based computation and is designed to work with supporting system components to form a complete processing platform.
- Instruction-driven processing: Executes program code to perform arithmetic, logic, and control operations.
- System-level integration: Interfaces with external resources to build a functional embedded computing system.
- Architecture-based selection: Commonly categorized by CPU architecture and software ecosystem compatibility.
