1. A small, self-contained computer on a single integrated circuit, designed to control specific functions in devices and systems.
Usage: technical; commonly used in electronics and embedded systems

Examples

• The microcontroller in your washing machine controls the spin cycle and water temperature.
• Arduino boards use microcontrollers to allow hobbyists to build interactive electronic projects.
• Modern cars contain dozens of microcontrollers that manage everything from engine timing to airbag deployment.
• The microcontroller reads sensor data and adjusts the thermostat automatically.
• Microcontrollers are cheaper and more power-efficient than full-sized computers for simple automation tasks.
• The robot's movement is controlled by a microcontroller that processes input from its sensors.