Small computers using LSI (large-scale integration) microprocessor chips as the CPU (central processing unit) and semiconductor memories for compact, inexpensive storage of program instructions and data. They are smaller and less expensive than minicomputers and are usually built into a dedicated system where they are optimized for a particular application. Microprocessor may refer to just the CPU or the entire microcomputer.

Annotation

do not confuse with MINICOMPUTERS

DUI

D008838 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0013776

Previous indexing

Computers (1966-1979)

History note

89(80); was see under COMPUTERS 1980-88

Public note

89; was see under COMPUTERS 1980-88