Microprocessor Control Applications

Microprocessors (aka Micro-controllers) are tiny computers embedded in household items, such as televisions, washing machines, burglar alarms and greenhouses. Through the use of input and output connections they can monitor and control the devices in real time.

Features include:
Wired / wireless internet connectivity – so that they can be monitored, controlled and updated over the internet. They have a number of input ports, so that they can be connected to buttons and sensors.

Output ports, so that they can turn on motors, devices or alarms. The use usually low power devices, meaning they down use a large amount of electricity, especially in standby mode.

Computer Controlled Glass Houses

Inputs Temperature sensors Soil moisture level sensors Humidity Sensors

Outputs Motors to open and close the windows to the glass house in order to control the temperature Motors to pump water from storage containers into the soil to water the plants

Preset Values Thermostat temperature setting to trigger the motors

Washing Machines

We don’t think of washing machines as computers, but modern washing machines contain a microprocessor that controls all of the complex washing cycles that modern washing machines have.

Inputs

Water sensors – to check if the watch has drained / has filled to the correct level

Temperature sensors – to see if the water has heated up to the required temperature for the wash.

​Vibration sensors – if the machine is incorrectly loaded and vibrates too much, the machine will switch off to avoid damage to the machine and avoid a potential leak.

Outputs

Turn on the motors that spin the machine

Turn on the draining pumps

Turn on the heating coil that heats the water

Preset Values

The dial on the front of the machine has a number of preset values:

The washing temperature

The cycle type (eco, intense, soak)

The spin speed

Automatic Cookers

​Automatic cookers are becoming increasingly popular, especially for those people who want to eat quality home-cooked food, but work full-time. They can be used to cook a variety of meals and foods, including: Slow-cooked stews Pies, Pastries and Bread Rice

Inputs

The cookers have temperature sensors to detect when the cooker has reached the desired temperature

Output

The cookers turn on and off the heating elements The cookers often also output a sound or tune when the food has finished cooking

Preset Values

The cooking temperature

The programme type ( what type of meal is being cooked)

Start time / delay so food only starts cooking at a certain time.

Burglar Alarms

Burglar alarm systems have become increasingly popular, and now have a vast array of different sensors and control devices.

Inputs

Heat sensors

Pressure sensors

Infra-red sensors

Magnetic reed switches

Outputs

Audio and visual alarms

Automatic text / email notifications

Automatic police telephone calls

Lockdown motors that protect expensive items / rooms



​Preset values

Arm / disarm times

Sensitivity levels – to cope with pets

Central Heating

Central heating systems now include increasingly complex micro-processing units. Modern systems can be controlled via an app on your phone, or even control themselves through location and behavior monitoring.

Inputs

Temperature input

​Location sensors ( central heating only activates when the owner comes home)

Outputs

Turn on the boiler

​Close automated windows and vents

Preset Values

​ Temperature setting on the dial Heating on/off times

​Activity

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