Microprocessors have played an important role in
realization and applications of automatic control in a
variety of real life systems. This paper presents issues
and concerns regarding the requirements in teaching
microprocessors for control implementation as these
devices experience rapid upgrades with improvements in
micro-electronic technology. While fundamentals are
very important to teach, at the same time students should
be up to date with technology. As an approach to resolve
this problem a two-course sequence in teaching
microprocessors is proposed. The first course would
cover the basics of microprocessor architectures,
programming, and interfacing, while the second course
would cover advanced microprocessors. low level device
drivers, complete system integration and issues relating to
implementation of the microprocessor-based control
systems.