The main characteristic of a microcontroller is its ability to integrate a processor, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals onto a single chip. Microcontrollers are designed for specific tasks in embedded systems, often in consumer electronics, automotive controls, and industrial machines. Due to their compact design, they offer a balance of performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This allows for the automation of processes and functionalities while consuming minimal power, making them ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) applications and other embedded solutions.