IoT and the Role of Embedded Devices MCUs and SBCs

Updated On : January 2025

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming society by connecting devices to create smarter, more efficient environments in homes, healthcare, industries, and beyond. Embedded devices like Microcontroller Units (MCUs) e.g. Arduino and Single Board Computers (SBCs) e.g. Raspberry PI play a crucial role in this revolution.

MCUs excel in low-power, task-specific applications like sensor monitoring and smart home devices.
SBCs enable more complex tasks like edge computing and AI in smart surveillance and industrial automation.

Together, these devices form the backbone of IoT, driving innovation and enhancing daily life.

Here is a quick rundown chart differentiating between a MCU and SBC.

Category	MCU	SBC
Definition	A microcontroller platform designed for specific, real-time tasks like controlling sensors and actuators.	A small, fully functional computer that can run an operating system and perform general-purpose computing tasks.
Hardware	Microcontroller chip (e.g., ATmega328, ARM Cortex). Limited memory (e.g., 32KB flash, 2KB RAM). GPIO pins for analog/digital I/O. No onboard storage for files (program flashed onto the chip).	Microprocessor (e.g., ARM Cortex-A series). Larger memory (e.g., 2GB–8GB RAM). USB ports, HDMI, Ethernet, GPIO pins, camera interfaces, and more Storage via SD card or eMMC for OS and files.
Programming	Programs are written in Arduino IDE (based on C/C++). Code is compiled and flashed onto the board. Real-time execution of one program at a time.	Supports multiple programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C, C++, etc.). Runs on operating systems like Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu, or other Linux distros. Allows multitasking and running multiple applications.
Power	Extremely low power consumption (runs on USB or batteries). Designed for energy-efficient, task-specific operations.	Higher power consumption (powered via USB-C or micro-USB). Requires more energy due to running an OS and handling complex tasks.
Ease of Use	Very beginner-friendly, with simple setup and fewer components to manage. Ideal for electronics and hardware-	Slightly more complex due to the need for an OS and file systems. More versatile and suitable for software-heavy projects.
Connectivity	Limited to UART, I2C, SPI, and similar protocols. Networking requires additional shields (e.g., Wi-Fi, Ethernet).	Built-in networking (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet in most models). Multiple USB ports for peripherals.
Cost	Generally cheaper (starting at ~$20).	Slightly more expensive (starting at ~$35).
Use Cases	Real-time systems like robotics, IoT, and sensor-based projects. Controlling LEDs, motors, and relays. Ideal for tasks needing precise timing (e.g., PWM for motor control).	General-purpose computing, media servers, and desktop replacements. Running web servers, coding platforms, and automation systems. Complex IoT systems, AI/ML projects, and multimedia applications.

Read more on various IoT use case https://www.interminddigital.com/services/iot-solutions-company

IoT and the Role of Embedded Devices MCUs and SBCs

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