Microcontroller Architecture

There are two main types of architecture in computers: Von Neumann architecture and Harvard architecture. Von Neumann architecture consists of a CPU, single-shared memory, an input unit, and an output unit. This type of architecture is associated with the Von Neumann bottleneck since the CPU and memory are separated. Therefore, the rate at which data and instructions get transferred in Von Neumann architecture depends on interconnectivity, which is one bus (an electrical connection that transfers information from memory to CPU). This type of architecture also allows the development of operating systems. Von Neumann architecture has been utilized in machines like personal computers, workstations, and laptops. On the other hand, Harvard architecture consists of two separate memories, two address buses, two data buses, a CPU, an input unit, and an output unit. This model provides the solution to the Von Neumann bottleneck problem since it has two separate memory spaces. However, designing and developing the control unit in Harvard architecture is quite complex and expensive as compared to Von Neumann architecture. Despite this difference, none of the two architecture is considered superior to the other, and their suitability mostly depends on their applications. Harvard architecture has been utilized in machines like dataflow machines, enigma machines, microcontrollers, and quantum computers.