Microcontroller
A microcontroller is essentially a simple microprocessor, combined with a small amount of RAM and ROM, all housed within a single chip. Together, they make a tiny, basic computer.
They're generally used for anything digital yet ridiculously simple. You'll find them within mechanical keyboards, converting button presses into USB data; within remote controls, converting button presses into infrared LED pulsing; and within digital step sequencers, storing and retrieving musical notes.
A single microcontroller IC is usually of a much lower spec than contemporary dedicated microprocessor, RAM, and ROM ICs.
Electronic components: CPU | Microcontroller | Microprocessor
Microcontrollers: ATmega328P | TMP80C49P | μPD650 | μPD8048
