The effects

Of microprocessor
devices
Microprocessor
Microprocessors are computers, usually on a single chip, that are put into electronic
devices to check, regulate and control something.
Using microprocessor-controlled devices in the home can have positive
and negative effects on our:
» lifestyle
» leisure time
» physical fitness
» data security
» social interaction.
Many common household devices are now fitted with microprocessors
to control a large number of their functions. The devices fall into two
main groups:
Labour-saving devices (group 1):
» automatic washing machines Other devices (group 2):
» microwave ovens » alarm clocks
» cookers » television sets
» automatic dishwashers » central heating and air-conditioning systems
» robotic vacuum cleaners » home entertainment systems
» bread-making machines » mobile phones and tablets.
» smart fridges and freezers.
The effects of microprocessor devices in the home
If you think of any device in the home that needs to be controlled in some way, then it is likely to
contain a microprocessor for this control. Here are some of the many devices used in the home that
contain microprocessors:
 Computer systems contain one or more microprocessors for the main processing and this is
called the CPU. There are also other microprocessors found in devices such as modems,
routers, disk drives, etc.
 Washing machines - used to control valves to let the water in, motors to turn the drum,
pumps to pump the water out. heaters to heat water up, and so on.
 Children's toys - use microprocessors to control lights, motors, speakers, etc.
 Heating systems - control the time the heating comes on,keeps the temperature constant by
turning the heating on/ off, etc. Modern heating systems can control the individual
temperatures of each room from a central place.
 Alarm systems - can detect the presence of a burglar and some systems will even contact the
police automatically.
 Intelligent ovens and microwaves - some of these incorporate bar code readers which read
the bar codes on packaging which the oven uses to find out the ideal time and temperature
for cooking.
 Intelligent fridges - a large internet food supply company has developed a fridge that can
scan the 'use by' dates on food and then move any food product to the front of the fridge
automatically using a series of computer controlled panels. this reduces food wastage.
 The effects of microprocessor-controlled devices
on leisure time
Many microprocessor-controlled devices save us time and allow us to have more leisure
time. For example, dishwashers can wash the dishes for us while we go out or watch a game
of football.
Here are some ways in which microprocessor-controlled devices affect leisure time:

 Mobile phones, laptops, netbooks, tablets, etc., mean employees can do more work on the move
and at home, which can mean that they have less time for family life.
 Electrical appliances controlled by microprocessors can complete tasks such as washing and
drying clothes, washing dishes, and cooking meals, which can eave a person free to do other
things.
 People can become lazy and rely on machines.
 Lack of fitness as people are not spending time doing manual work.
 Can use the extra time saved to go to the gym or exercise more.
 Many people spend their leisure time playing games, surfing the net. downloading and listening
to music, etc., on computers and games consoles, which all make use of microprocessors.
 Watching programs on TV using satellite or cable TV makes use of microprocessors.
 You don't have to be in when washing is being done so you spend time at work or doing other
things.