A microcontroller clock is a crucial component that determines the operating speed of a microcontroller. It generates a periodic signal that synchronizes the internal operations of the chip, enabling it to execute instructions in a timely manner. The clock speed, typically measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz), dictates how many cycles the microcontroller can perform per second; for example, a 16 MHz clock can execute up to 16 million cycles per second.
Microcontrollers often feature various clock sources, such as internal oscillators, external crystals, or resonators, which can be selected based on the application's requirements for accuracy and power consumption. Additionally, many microcontrollers allow for clock division, where the main clock frequency can be divided down to lower frequencies to save power during less intensive operations. Understanding and configuring the microcontroller clock is essential for optimizing performance and ensuring reliable operation in embedded systems.
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