Comparing the 8051 Microcontroller with PIC and Arduino

An essential component of embedded systems for many years, the 8051 microcontroller was first created by Intel in the 1980s. But with the emergence of more recent microcontroller families like Arduino and PIC, it’s critical to evaluate these platforms according to features, programming, architecture, usability, and applications.

 The differences, advantages, and disadvantages of the 8051 microcontroller, Arduino, and PIC microcontrollers will all be thoroughly compared in this paper.

1. Microcontroller architecture

Core 8051 architecture

• Manufacturer: Originally Intel, different companies now produce variants, including Silicon Labs, Atmel (now part of Microchip), and Nuvoton. 8-bit microcontroller at the center
• ROM: Usually 4 KB, but some versions can support more memory. 128 internal random-access memory (RAM).
• Clock Speed: Depending on the variant, it can typically reach up to 12 MHz.
• Registers: 32 general-purpose registers and 128 internal random-access memory, CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computing) is the instruction set.
• I/O Ports: 4 I/O ports with 32 pins, each 8 bits wide.
• Because of its CISC architecture, the 8051 microcontroller can execute a large number of instructions, some of which may take several cycles to complete. In certain situations, this can make the programming less effective but more flexible.

The architecture of Arduino

The open-source Arduino platform is the manufacturer.

 Core: ARM-based microcontrollers in advanced boards (like the Arduino Due) or 8-bit microcontrollers (the Arduino Uno uses the ATmega328P).

ROM: The Arduino Uno’s 32 KB of flash memory. RAM: Arduino Uno’s 2 KB SRAM. The Arduino Uno’s clock speed is normally 16 MHz; newer models, such as the Arduino Due with ARM Cortex-M3 (84 MHz), have a higher clock speed.

32 general-purpose registers are present.

RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) is the instruction set.

I/O Ports: Arduino Uno has six analog inputs and fourteen digital I/O pins. Because Arduino employs a RISC architecture, instructions are usually executed more quickly and effectively. In contrast to the 8051, its instruction depth and complexity are more constrained.

PIC Architecture:

Microchip Technology is the manufacturer.

Core: Microcontrollers with 8-, 16-, and 32-bit cores (8-bit is the most common in the PIC family).

ROM: varies based on the model, but usually falls between 1 KB and 256 KB.

RAM: Ranges from 64 bytes to several KB, depending on the model.

 Clock Speed: Higher for 16-bit and 32-bit versions, but up to 40 MHz for 8-bit PICs.

Registers: Depending on the model, these can range from 16 to 256. RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) is the instruction set. Models range in the number of I/O ports they offer from 8 to 40. The RISC-based architecture of PIC microcontrollers is well-known for facilitating simpler instruction sets and quicker execution.

2. 8051 Programming

Language: C and other languages are supported, but assembly language is usually used. Development Environment: Needs a specific IDE or a text editor that has a compiler, such as IAR Embedded Workbench, SDCC, or Keil. It is moderately difficult. Although assembly language gives you complete control over the microcontroller, it necessitates a deeper comprehension of instruction sets and hardware.

Programming an Arduino

Involves using C/C++ and simplified libraries (the Arduino IDE runs in its own environment). Development Environment: Beginners can quickly and easily develop using the Arduino IDE thanks to its user-friendly interface and integrated libraries. It’s easy. With a sizable community and a wealth of reference examples, Arduino’s simplicity is one of its best features.

PIC Programming:

Language: C or Assembly.

Development Environment: C and assembly language programming are supported by the MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Xpress. It is moderately difficult. Although it offers a good balance between control and usability, it necessitates a strong grasp of C/assembly programming and embedded systems.

3. Ecosystem 8051 Tools and Development Tools:

IDE:

IAR Embedded Workbench,  SDCC (Small Device C Compiler), and Keil µVision.

Debugging: Since 8051 chips lack built-in debugging capabilities, it usually calls for a hardware debugger or emulator. Despite being smaller than Arduino, the community is devoted, particularly in industrial applications.

Arduino Tools:

Arduino IDE: This tool has a vast library ecosystem and user-friendly debugging capabilities. Debugging: There isn’t much built-in support for debugging, but you can use external tools like serial monitoring or JTAG.

Community: A sizable and vibrant community with a wealth of online resources, projects, and tutorials.

MPLAB Tools:

MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Xpress are examples of PIC tools.

Debugging: PICkit and ICD (In-Circuit Debugger) are two tools that provide comprehensive debugging support.

4. Characteristics and Peripherals

8051 Qualities:

Timers/Counters: Two timers that can be used for PWM generation or event counting. Five sources of interruptions

Serial Communication: Serial communication is supported by an integrated UART.

 Analog I/O: External ADCs are needed for analog inputs; there is no built-in ADC. In general, power consumption is minimal, particularly when idle modes are being used.

Features of Arduino:

Timer/Counter: Depending on the model, there are several timers available (the Arduino Uno, for example, has three timers).

 Interrupts: The Uno has two external interrupts. Serial communication is supported via SPI, I2C, and UART.

Analog I/O: The Uno has an integrated 10-bit ADC with up to six analog inputs. Power Consumption: When compared to the 8051, Arduino boards typically use more power.

Features of PIC microcontroller

Timers/Counters: Several timers (up to five in some versions) are PIC features.

Multiple interrupts with a system of priorities.

 Serial Communication: Depending on the model, UART, SPI, and I2C are supported.

Analog I/O: Most models have built-in ADC. Power Consumption: There are low power options.

5. Applications 8051:

Industrial Automation: Because of its stability and dependability, 8051 is frequently utilized in industrial controllers, sensors, and actuators.

 Automotive Systems: The 8051 is frequently used in basic control systems found in automobiles. Consumer electronics include basic devices and household appliances.

Applications for Arduino:

Prototyping: Perfect for do-it-yourself projects and quick prototypes.

Internet of Things: Arduino has grown in popularity as a platform for IoT applications. Education: Often used in classrooms to instruct students in electronics and embedded systems.

PIC Uses:

Embedded Systems: Found in consumer electronics and automotive, among other embedded applications.

 Industrial Automation: The PIC is utilized in industrial control systems, just like the 8051 microcontroller. Consumer Products: A lot of toys, gadgets, and home appliances are powered by PICs.

6. Cost 8051:

Microcontrollers based on the 8051 architecture are generally low-cost. Debuggers and programming tools, however, might incur extra development expenses.

Cost: Premium Arduino boards, such as the Arduino Due, can be more costly than entry-level models like the Arduino Uno. Shields and sensors may incur additional fees.

PIC: Cost: Depending on the model, PIC microcontrollers can range in price from extremely low-cost 8-bit models to more expensive 16-bit and 32-bit models.

In conclusion

The 8051 microcontroller, Arduino, and PIC microcontroller families each have advantages and are best suited for particular uses. For legacy applications and systems that need stability and low-level control in industrial settings, the 8051 microcontroller is perfect.

Arduino ease of use, extensive ecosystem, and support for a wide variety of peripherals make it ideal for novices, enthusiasts, and rapid prototyping.

Because of its flexibility and power efficiency, PIC is widely used in industrial applications and offers a good balance between performance, control, and usability.

 The particular requirements of your project, your preferences for the development environment, and your level of experience with the various platforms will ultimately determine which microcontroller you choose.