Processes (Programming Microcontrollers) (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

Counters and timers

What is a counter?

• A counter is a circuit which counts events, incrementing or decrementing with each input trigger

• Simple counters count to a set number and then trigger an action

• Complex counters can have variable counting with different action changes

What is a timer?

• A timer is a circuit which measures time and triggers events after set delays

• Simple timers use fixed intervals and trigger a single action

• Complex timers can have variable timing with multiple actions

Role of a programmable microcontroller

• A programmable microcontroller interprets electrical signals from counters and timers

• Microcontrollers ensure accuracy and reliability by using digital information

Decision making

What is decision making in a system?

• Decision making is where a circuit selects actions based on input signals or data

• The microcontroller requires code programming to give it instructions for making decisions

• Decisions are limited to the inputs received by the system

Example uses of decision making

• Security systems (distinguishing human from animal motion)

• Washing machines (monitoring and adjusting water levels)

Providing functionality to products & processes

What is the role of a programmable microcontroller?

• A programmable microcontroller acts as the "brain" of the circuit, interpreting inputs and executing outputs

• Microcontrollers enable product automation, responsiveness and independence

• They can connect to both simple and complex inputs and outputs