The 8051 is based on an 8-bit CISC core with Harvard architecture. It's an 8-bit CPU, optimized for control applications with extensive boolean processing (single-bit logic capabilities), 64K program and data memory address space and various on-chip peripherals.
The 8051 microcontroller family offers developers a wide variety of high-integration and cost-effective solutions for virtually every basic embedded control application. From traffic control equipment to input devices and computer networking products, 8051 microcontrollers deliver high performance together with a choice of configurations and options matched to the special needs of each application. Whether it's low power operation, higher frequency performance, expanded on-chip RAM, or an application-specific requirement, there's a version of the 8051 microcontroller that's right for the job.
When it's time to upgrade product features and functionality, the 8051 architecture puts you on the first step of a smooth and cost-effective upgrade path - to the enhanced performance of the 151 and 251 microcontrollers.