マイコン

noun

microcomputer; personal computer; home computer

Abbreviation of マイクロコンピュータ. Historically used for early personal/home computers, especially in the 1980s. Now somewhat dated; modern Japanese prefers パソコン for general personal computers.

See also: マイクロコンピューター

• 1980年ねん代だい、多おおくの家か庭ていでマイコンが使つかわれ始はじめた。

  In the 1980s, many households started using microcomputers.

noun

microcontroller; microprocessor; MCU

In modern engineering contexts, マイコン often refers to a microcontroller unit (MCU) or microprocessor, distinct from a full personal computer.

• このロボットはマイコンで制せい御ぎょされている。

  This robot is controlled by a microcontroller.

noun

animated icon; moving icon

Rare usage; refers to a small animated graphic or icon, possibly from early computer interfaces or games. Not a common modern term.

• 昔むかしのソフトでは、画が面めんにマイコンが表ひょう示じされて動うごいていた。

  In old software, animated icons were displayed and moved on the screen.