When designing system block diagrams for consumer devices, the microcontroller (MCU) is a central component that integrates all software, firmware, and electrical assemblies.
- Performance Requirements:
- Clock Speed: Ensure the MCU’s clock speed is sufficient for the computational tasks.
- Processing Power: Consider whether the MCU’s CPU architecture (e.g., 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit) meets the performance needs.
- Memory:
- Flash Memory: Sufficient non-volatile memory for the program code.
- RAM: Enough volatile memory for data storage and processing needs during operation.
- EEPROM: If non-volatile data storage is required.
- Peripheral Support:
- I/O Ports: Adequate number and type of general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins.
- Communication Interfaces: Availability of necessary interfaces like UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, USB, Ethernet, etc.
- Development Support:
- Development Tools: Availability of compilers, debuggers, and integrated development environments (IDEs).