UNIT - IV DESIGNING EMBEDDED SYSTEM WITH 8051 MICROCONTROLLER

FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN SELECTING A CONTROLLER – 8051

MICROCONTROLLER – DESIGNING WITH 8051 PROGRAMMING:
STRUCTURE OF EMBEDDED PROGRAM – INFINITE LOOP – COMPILING,
LINKING & DEBUGGING.

DESIGNING EMBEDDED SYSTEM WITH 8051 MICROCONTROLLER:

Designing an embedded system using the 8051 microcontroller involves integrating

hardware and software to perform a specific control task. The 8051 is widely used in
embedded applications because of its simple architecture, built-in peripherals, and ease of
programming.

1. Definition

Designing an Embedded System with 8051 is the process of creating a dedicated electronic
system using the 8051 microcontroller to control devices, process inputs, and produce
outputs for a specific application.

2. Steps in Designing an Embedded System with 8051

1. Requirement Analysis

 Identify the purpose of the system.

 Determine inputs, outputs, processing needs, and performance requirements.

2. Hardware Selection

Select the required components:

 8051 Microcontroller
  Power supply circuit
 Crystal oscillator
 Reset circuit
 Input devices (switches, sensors)
 Output devices (LEDs, motors, displays)
 External memory (if needed)

3. Hardware Design

 Connect components to the 8051 ports (P0, P1, P2, P3).

 Design circuits for input/output interfacing.
 Ensure proper voltage levels and protection circuits.

4. Software Development

 Write the control program in Assembly language or Embedded C.

 The program controls how the microcontroller reads inputs and generates outputs.

5. Program Compilation

 Convert the source code into machine code (HEX file) using a compiler.

6. Simulation and Testing

 Use software tools (like Keil or Proteus) to test the program before hardware
implementation.

7. Programming the Microcontroller

 Load the compiled program into the 8051 microcontroller memory using a
programmer.

8. System Integration

 Combine the hardware circuit and the programmed microcontroller.

9. Testing and Debugging

 Test the complete system.

 Fix errors in hardware or software if necessary.

3. Components Required

 8051 Microcontroller
 Crystal Oscillator
 Reset Circuit
 Power Supply
 Input Devices (Switches, Sensors)
 Output Devices (LED, LCD, Motor)
 External Memory (optional)

4. Advantages of Designing Embedded Systems with 8051

 Simple architecture
 Low cost
 Easy programming
 Built-in timers and serial communication
 Widely available development tools

5. Applications

 Home automation systems

 Traffic light control
 Industrial automation
 Security systems
 Consumer electronics

FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN SELECTING A CONTROLLER:

A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern specific operations in

embedded systems. Selecting the right controller is crucial to ensure efficiency, cost-
effectiveness, and suitability for the intended application. Several factors must be considered
to make the optimal choice.
1. High Performance

 Refers to the processing speed and computational capability of the controller.

 Important for applications requiring fast response times, real-time control, or heavy
computation.
 High-performance controllers improve efficiency but may increase cost and power
consumption.

2. On-Chip Resources

 These are the built-in peripherals like timers, ADCs, DACs, communication
interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and memory.
 Controllers with sufficient on-chip resources reduce the need for external
components, making the system smaller, cheaper, and easier to design.

3. Compatibility and Upgradeability

 Ensures that the controller works with existing hardware and software.
 Upgradeable controllers allow future enhancements, firmware updates, or migration
to more advanced models without redesigning the system.
4. Development Tool

 Availability of IDE, compilers, debuggers, and libraries.

 Easier development leads to faster prototyping and debugging, reducing design
time.
 Good tool support is crucial, especially for beginners or complex applications.

5. Provider

 Refers to the manufacturer or supplier of the microcontroller.

 Factors like reliability of supply, after-sales support, documentation, and
community resources affect the selection.
 Established providers often offer better reliability and long-term availability.

6. Cost

 The total price of the microcontroller, including per-unit cost, development cost,
and external components savings.
 Cost must align with the project budget, especially for large-scale production.

7. Power Consumption

 Critical for battery-operated or energy-sensitive applications.

 Controllers with low power modes or efficient energy usage prolong battery life.
 Power consumption also affects thermal management of the system.

8. Other Factors

 Miscellaneous considerations like physical package, temperature range, EMI/ESD

resistance, reliability, and longevity.
 These factors ensure the controller is robust, durable, and suitable for
environmental conditions.

8051 MICROCONTROLLER

1. Definition of 8051 Microcontroller

  The 8051 Microcontroller is an 8-bit microcontroller developed by Intel in 1980.
 It is designed for embedded systems to control specific tasks efficiently.
 Contains CPU, memory, and I/O ports on a single chip, making it compact and
cost-effective.

2. Architecture of 8051 Microcontroller

The 8051 has a Harvard architecture, meaning separate memory for program and data.
Key components:

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

o Performs arithmetic, logic, and control operations.
2. ROM/Flash (Program Memory)
o Stores the program code permanently.
3. RAM (Data Memory)
o Stores temporary data and variables during execution.
4. I/O Ports (P0, P1, P2, P3)
o 4 parallel input/output ports used to interface with external devices.
5. Timers/Counters
o Two 16-bit timers for timing operations and counting external events.
 6. Serial Port (UART)
o Used for serial communication with other devices.
7. Interrupts
o Five interrupt sources to handle real-time events.
8. Oscillator and Clock Circuit
o Provides clock pulses for timing and operation.

3. Features of 8051 Microcontroller

1. 8-bit CPU – can process 8 bits of data at a time.

2. On-chip 4 KB ROM for program storage.
3. 128 bytes RAM for data storage.
4. 32 I/O pins through 4 ports (P0–P3).
5. Two 16-bit timers/counters for time-based tasks.
6. Supports serial communication via UART.
7. Five interrupt sources for responsive operations.
8. Low power consumption with idle and power-down modes.

4. Applications of 8051 Microcontroller

 Embedded systems: washing machines, microwave ovens, and remote controls.

 Industrial automation: motor control, robotics, sensors.
 Communication: UART-based data transfer.
 Consumer electronics: calculators, digital clocks, toys.

DESIGNING WITH 8051 PROGRAMMING

1. Introduction to 8051 Programming

The 8051 microcontroller is an 8-bit microcontroller widely used in embedded systems for
controlling hardware. Programming it involves writing instructions to perform tasks like I/O
control, arithmetic, logic operations, and interfacing with peripherals.

 Programming Languages: Assembly language (low-level) or C language (high-

level).
 Execution Model: Harvard architecture (separate program and data memory).
  Purpose: Control devices, read sensors, manage displays, communicate with
peripherals.

2. Designing Steps with 8051 Programming

Step 1: Define System Requirements

 Identify what the embedded system should do.

 Examples: Temperature monitoring, motor control, LED display, sensor data logging.
 Points to consider:
1. Input types (switch, sensor, keyboard).
2. Output types (LEDs, motors, displays).
3. Timing requirements (real-time, periodic).
4. Communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C).
5. Memory requirements (ROM, RAM, EEPROM).

Step 2: Choose the 8051 Microcontroller

 Select based on system requirements.

 Factors for Selection:
1. Number of I/O pins.
2. Available timers/counters.
3. On-chip memory (ROM, RAM).
4. Clock speed requirements.
5. Peripheral support (serial ports, ADC/DAC).

Step 3: Hardware Design

 Design the circuit connecting microcontroller to inputs and outputs.

 Important components:
1. Power supply (regulated 5V for 8051).
2. Clock oscillator (12 MHz typical).
3. Reset circuitry.
4. Input devices (switches, sensors).
5. Output devices (LEDs, motors, relays).
Step 4: Write the Program

 Program logic based on system requirements.

 Programming Tips:
1. Start with small test routines.
2. Use modular functions for readability.
3. Implement delays using timers for precise control.
4. Use interrupts for real-time responses.
5. Simulate and debug before loading on hardware.

Step 5: Compile and Load Program

 Use Keil μVision or similar IDE for compiling.

 Convert the code to hex file.
 Load hex file into 8051 via programmer.

Step 6: Testing and Debugging

 Test each module separately: input reading, output control, communication.

 Debugging techniques:
1. LED indicators for flow tracking.
2. Serial output for monitoring values.
3. Oscilloscope/logic analyzer for timing issues.

Step 7: Optimization

 Optimize program for memory and speed.

 Reduce unnecessary loops and delays.
 Use bit manipulation for I/O efficiency.

3. Example Program in 8051 (LED Blinking)

Assembly Language Example:

ORG 0H ; Program starting address

START:
MOV P1, #0FFH ; Set Port1 as output
LOOP:
CPL P1 ; Toggle all pins of Port1
ACALL DELAY ; Call delay subroutine
SJMP LOOP ; Repeat loop
DELAY:
MOV R2, #255
D1: MOV R1, #255
D2: DJNZ R1, D2
DJNZ R2, D1
RET
END

Explanation:

 Toggles all LEDs connected to Port 1.

 Uses a software delay loop to make LED blinking visible.

4. Programming Considerations

1. Memory Management: Ensure code fits in program memory.

2. Timing Accuracy: Use timers for precise delays.
3. Interrupt Handling: For real-time applications like alarms or sensors.
4. Power Consumption: Optimize for low power if battery-operated.
5. Peripheral Compatibility: Match interfaces (UART, SPI) with devices.

STRUCTURE OF EMBEDDED PROGRAM:

An embedded program is designed to continuously control hardware. The typical structure:

a) Header / Include Files (C programs)

Definition:
Header or include files contain predefined definitions, macros, and declarations for the
microcontroller’s special function registers (SFRs), ports, and hardware features. They allow
the program to recognize and use microcontroller-specific resources.
Purpose:

 Provide names for SFRs like P0, P1, TMOD, TH0.

 Include standard library functions.
 Avoid manually defining hardware addresses.

Example:

#include <reg51.h> // 8051 register definitions

#include <stdio.h> // Standard input-output library

b) Initialization Section

Definition:
The initialization section is the part of the program where the microcontroller and its
peripherals are configured before starting the main tasks.

Purpose:

 Prepare hardware for operation.

 Set input/output directions for ports.
 Configure timers, counters, serial communication, and interrupts.

Key Components:

1. Port Initialization: Set pins as input or output.

P1 = 0x00; // Port1 as output

P2 = 0xFF; // Port2 as input

2. Timer Initialization: Configure timers for delays or events.

TMOD = 0x01; // Timer0 mode1

TR0 = 1; // Start Timer0

3. Interrupt Setup: Enable interrupts if required.

IE = 0x85; // Enable Timer0 and External interrupt 0

C Subroutines / Functions
Subroutines or functions are separate blocks of code that perform specific tasks and can be
called multiple times from the main program or other subroutines.

 Breaks the program into manageable, reusable modules.

 Examples:
1. Delay Function:

void delay_ms(unsigned int ms) {

unsigned int i, j;
for(i=0;i<ms;i++)
for(j=0;j<1275;j++);
}

2. LCD Display Routine

3. UART Transmit/Receive Function

INFINITE LOOP:

1. Definition of Infinite Loop

An infinite loop is a loop that runs continuously without termination until the
microcontroller is powered off or reset.

 In embedded systems, infinite loops are used because the system must continuously
monitor inputs and control outputs in real time.
 The microcontroller never “exits” the program like a PC application; it runs
indefinitely.

2. Purpose of Infinite Loop in 8051

1. Continuous Monitoring: Keep checking sensors, switches, or inputs.

2. Real-Time Response: Respond to events, alarms, or inputs as they occur.
3. Task Repetition: Execute tasks repeatedly, like blinking LEDs or reading data.
4. Supports Interrupts: Allows asynchronous interrupts to preempt the loop while the
main program keeps running.
 5. System Reliability: Ensures the system doesn’t stop unexpectedly.

3. Infinite Loop in C Language

Syntax:

while(1) {
// Main program tasks
}

Example: Blinking an LED on Port 1

#include <reg51.h>

void delay_ms(unsigned int ms);

void main() {
P1 = 0x00; // Port1 as output
while(1) { // Infinite loop
P1 = 0xFF; // Turn ON LEDs
delay_ms(500);
P1 = 0x00; // Turn OFF LEDs
delay_ms(500);
}
}

void delay_ms(unsigned int ms) {

unsigned int i, j;
for(i=0; i<ms; i++)
for(j=0; j<1275; j++);
}

Explanation:

 The while(1) ensures the LED blinking repeats forever.

 The program never exits the main loop.
COMPILING, LINKING & DEBUGGING.

When programming the 8051 microcontroller, writing code in C or Assembly is just the
first step. To run the program on the hardware, it must go through three key processes:

1. Compiling – Converts source code into machine-understandable object code.

2. Linking – Combines object code and libraries into a single executable (HEX) file.
3. Debugging – Detects and corrects errors, ensuring correct program execution.

2. Compiling

Definition:
Compiling is the process of converting high-level code (C) or assembly code into object
code (binary instructions the 8051 can execute).

Purpose:

 Translate human-readable instructions into machine code.

 Detect syntax errors in code.
 Prepare code for linking.

Workflow:

1. Source code (.c or .asm) is input to the compiler.

2. Compiler checks syntax and semantics.
3. Generates object code (.obj) or intermediate code.

Example in C (Keil μVision):

#include <reg51.h>
void main() {
P1 = 0xFF; // Turn on LEDs
}

 Compiler converts this into machine code instructions stored in memory.

Common Compiler Errors:

  Missing semicolons ;
 Undeclared variables or functions
 Invalid register names

3. Linking

Definition:
Linking is the process of combining compiled object code with library routines to produce
a single executable file (HEX) that can be loaded onto the microcontroller.

Purpose:

 Resolve addresses of functions and variables.

 Combine multiple modules or files into one program.
 Include predefined libraries for hardware control.

Example:

 Your main program calls a delay function in another file.

 The linker ensures the correct memory address for the delay function is included in
the HEX file.

Output:

 A HEX file (e.g., [Link]) ready to be programmed into the 8051’s memory.

Note:

 Linking is crucial for modular programs with multiple subroutines or library calls.

4. Debugging

Definition:
Debugging is the process of finding and correcting errors (bugs) in the program to ensure
proper operation on the microcontroller.
Purpose:

 Ensure the program functions as intended.

 Detect logical errors or timing issues.
 Monitor the microcontroller’s internal registers and memory.