Where are Microprocessors Used?
First there’s the simple answer of inside your computer. You’ve probably heard of the Intel “Pentium” series, as most consumer computers utilize some version of Intel microprocessors. Besides the obvious, microprocessors are used in many other places. In fact, it is estimated that 98% of microprocessors are not used in personal computers! The vast majority of microprocessors can be found in embedded systems, which are a “combination of computer hardware and software, and perhaps additional mechanical or other parts, designed to perform a dedicated function” and they are found practically everywhere (Barr). Cell phones, mp3 players, video game consoles, washing machines, microwaves, cars, televisions, and others all contain some type of embedded system with a microprocessor inside. The impact of the invention of the microprocessor on the world can be seen in the fact that practically every modern electronic device is an example of an embedded system (Barr).
