Microcontrollers - An Introduction

Name: Microcontrollers - An Introduction
Rating: 4.3 (14 reviews)

All about Microcontrollers, its Architecture, Arduino, IoT and Cloud

Created byEngineering and Technology

Last updated 2/2026

English

What you'll learn

Understand the fundamental concepts of microcontrollers, including their architecture, operation, and applications.
Gain knowledge of Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) used for microcontroller programming and develop proficiency in utilizing them.
Differentiate between microprocessors and microcontrollers, comprehending their unique features and determining their suitable applications.
Acquire a comprehensive understanding of the various blocks used in microcontrollers, their interactions, and specific functions, enabling effective development
Know details of Arduino architecture and its varients
How to code online using Arduino web editor and store your sketches online into the cloud
How Microcontrollers can be used with Internet of Things (IoT)
How microcontrollers use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and sensors
How to read and understand datasheets and userguides of microcontroller SoC, modules and development boards
Details on ESP8266 and ESP32
Details on Arduino BLE sense

Course content

8 sections • 26 lectures • 3h 11m total length

Meet your instructor !0:15
See who is teaching you ! It is important to learn from knowledgeable and skillful people!
What is a microcontroller ?2:47
Know what a microcontroller is. Know what Integrated development platform (IDE) is. How a microcontroller works.
Difference between microcontroller and microprocessor5:24
Know the basic difference between microprocessor and microcontroller. Know which one to use and for what. understand the key differences between the two in a tabular form.
Microcontroller block diagram/architecture9:02
Learn what different blocks are used in a microcontroller. Learn how they interact with each other. Learn what each block does and what their specific task is. This is important information before becoming well versed with using the microcontrollers and developing applications using them.
Memory in a microcontroller9:43
Know types of memories used in a microcontroller. Learn different types of memory and functions of each. Learn what specific memory is used by Arduino uno (8-bit) microcontroller and how it works.
Special function registers (SFRs) and I/O interface of microcontroller4:12
Learn what Special function registers (SFRs) and IO interfaces of microcontrollers do. How they work and how microcontrollers use them to control and configure various external peripherals.
Which block of a microcontroller is used to store the firmware/program?
8-bit microcontroller1:31
Understand what an 8-bit microcontroller is. How it works. How CPU fetches an instruction, process and store data (via data bus) on 8-bit at a time. How registers, memory and ALU operate on 8-bit data at a time.

Arduino architecture2:07
See what chip/IC is used by Arduino Uno architecture. What its use, what it does. See which company manufactures it.
Arduino architecture5:16
Know what is RISC architecture. Know that Arduino architecture is RISC based. Know what RISC architecture features.
Arduino architecture4:32
Arduino architecture6:44
Know specific architecture of Arduino Uno. Know how powerful is architecture of Arduino Uno and what you can do with it to develop your applications.
Arduino basics
Arduino architecture1:30
What is an Arduino and what it can do2:20
Arduino website, boards, and architectural difference between arduino boards8:37
Learn how to navigate arduino website, know about the different arduino boards, shields, and kits. Learn the architectural difference between two different arduino boards
How to Download and install arduino IDE2:21
Link to download is https://www.arduino.cc/en/software
How to Download and install arduino IDE and explore IDE software10:41
Explore the new major release of the Arduino IDE.
Arduino IDE 2.1.1 is faster and even more powerful! In addition to a more modern editor and a more responsive interface it features autocompletion, code navigation, and even a live debugger.

How to use Arduino Web Editor - CODE ONLINE9:06
Learn how to do coding online and save your sketches in the cloud. The most up-to-date version of the IDE includes all libraries and also supports new Arduino boards.
Arduino web editor + cloud + client agent + arduino board and port10:38
Unlock a new dimension of Arduino programming and development with our seamless integration of the Arduino Uno Online Editor, Cloud Connectivity, Client Agent, and Arduino Board/Port Management. Experience unparalleled convenience and efficiency as you harness the power of these interconnected components.
Run your first program using Arduino cloud web editor11:46
Discover how to Run your first program using Arduino cloud web editor, how to use web browser, how to save your sketch in the cloud (online)

ESP8266 | Wi-Fi | MCU | IoT | Arduino compatible28:22
Welcome to our exciting new video on ESP8266. This is the tiny, versatile, and affordable NodeMCU (ESP8266) board. In this video, you'll learn about ESP8266 SoC, module, and development kit and its compatibility with Arduino IDE. The datasheet and user guide of ESP8266 are explained.
ESP32 | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth | MCU | IoT | Arduino compatible14:51
The ESP32 is a versatile microcontroller unit (MCU) that integrates Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a popular choice for various embedded and IoT (Internet of Things) projects. ESP32: The ESP32 is a microcontroller chip developed by Espressif Systems. It's part of the ESP family of chips and is known for its low power consumption, dual-core processor, and a wide range of peripherals, making it suitable for a variety of applications. It uses the Xtensa LX6 CPU architecture and comes with various memory options. Wi-Fi: The ESP32 includes built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, which allow it to connect to wireless networks and communicate with other devices over the internet. This feature is essential for IoT applications, as it enables devices to send and receive data to and from remote servers or other connected devices. Bluetooth: The ESP32 also features Bluetooth connectivity, typically in the form of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Classic Bluetooth. BLE is commonly used for short-range communication between devices, such as connecting to smartphones or other peripherals. Classic Bluetooth is suitable for more traditional Bluetooth applications. Embedded: The ESP32 can be programmed using various development frameworks, including the Arduino IDE and the ESP-IDF (Espressif IoT Development Framework).

Requirements

No specific requirements or prior experience necessary - this beginner-friendly course on microcontrollers and embedded systems welcomes all interested learners.
Interest in embedded hardware development and software interface
Interest in developing IoT applications for IoT

Description

Update: Lectures on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled microcontrollers and development boards have been added.

Update: Unlock a new dimension of Arduino programming and development with our seamless integration of the Arduino Uno Online Editor, Cloud Connectivity, Client Agent, and Arduino Board/Port Management. Experience unparalleled convenience and efficiency as you harness the power of these interconnected components!

Update: - You can find attached all the presentation slide used during the lecturing. Happy learning!

Welcome to the Microcontroller Fundamentals Course! In this course, you will have the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable and skillful instructor who will guide you through the world of microcontrollers.

The course begins with an introduction to microcontrollers, where you will gain a solid understanding of what they are and how they work. You will explore the basic differences between microprocessors and microcontrollers, allowing you to make informed decisions on which one to use for different applications.

We will delve into the key differences between microprocessors and microcontrollers through a comprehensive tabular comparison, enabling you to grasp their unique features and functionalities.

You will also discover the various blocks used in microcontrollers, their interactions, and specific tasks. Understanding these blocks is essential for developing applications using microcontrollers effectively.

Memory plays a vital role in microcontrollers (MCUs), and you will learn about different types of memories and their functions. We will specifically explore the memory used by the Arduino Uno (an 8-bit microcontroller) and how it operates.

Special Function Registers (SFRs) and I/O interfaces are critical components of microcontrollers, allowing them to control and configure external peripherals. You will gain insight into the functionality and operation of SFRs and I/O interfaces.

To test your understanding, we will have quizzes throughout the course. One of the quizzes will focus on identifying the specific block used to store firmware/program in a microcontroller.

You will explore the fascinating world of 8-bit microcontrollers. You will learn how the CPU fetches instructions, processes data, and stores it via the data bus on an 8-bit basis. Additionally, we will explore how registers, memory, and the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) operate on 8-bit data.

You will have a solid foundation in microcontroller fundamentals, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to work with microcontrollers and develop applications effectively. So, join us on this exciting journey into the world of microcontrollers and unlock new possibilities for your projects!

No prior experience with microcontrollers is required for this course. Basic knowledge of programming concepts and familiarity with electronics will be beneficial but not mandatory. The course is designed to accommodate beginners in the field while providing valuable insights and practical skills for more experienced learners.

You will then learn about arduino web editor and how to write sketches online and store it into the cloud. Then, you will be introduced about MCUs that enable wif-fi and bluetooth. This is important with respect to developing an IoT applications.

Who this course is for:

This course is intended for beginners and enthusiasts who want to learn about microcontrollers and embark on their journey into the world of embedded systems. It is suitable for students, hobbyists, electronics enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how microcontrollers work and how to program them. Whether you have a background in electronics or programming or are completely new to the subject, this course will provide a solid foundation and practical knowledge to start working with microcontrollers and undertake exciting projects.
Embedded developers
Hardware engineers
IoT engineers

Microcontrollers - An Introduction

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

Introduction7 lectures • 33min

Arduino Microcontroller9 lectures • 44min

Arduino Web Editor - CODE ONLINE3 lectures • 32min

How do Microcontrollers use WI-Fi and Bluetooth?2 lectures • 43min

How do Microcontrollers use Bluetooth ?1 lecture • 18min

Microcontroller + System on chip (SOC) + die + memory + I/O1 lecture • 4min

Microcontroller interface with sensors1 lecture • 4min

Internet of things (IoT)2 lectures • 13min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: