What is the Difference between 8085 and 8086 Microprocessor?
The difference between the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors primarily lies in their architecture and processing capabilities, which cater to various applications in digital electronics and embedded systems.
The 8085, an 8-bit microprocessor, is designed for simpler tasks, while the 8086, with its 16-bit architecture, offers enhanced performance and a more complex instruction set, enabling greater computational efficiency.
Understanding these differences will assist you in determining which microprocessor is better suited for your system design and application requirements.
Architecture
The architecture of the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors has a significant impact on their performance and application scope.
The 8085 features a simpler architecture based on an 8-bit design, while the 8086 offers a more advanced 16-bit architecture that facilitates segmented memory management.
This distinction arises from their key components, including the control unit and the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
The control unit manages operations by directing the flow of data and instructions, whereas the ALU carries out essential arithmetic and logical functions.
Registers in both processors are crucial for temporarily storing data for quick access and manipulation.
The 8086’s efficiency in memory addressing, due to its capability to handle larger data sets and more complex operations, enhances overall system performance.
This allows for smoother execution of applications compared to the more limited capabilities of the 8085.
Instruction Set
The instruction set of the 8085 microprocessor is limited when compared to that of the 8086, which offers a more extensive array of instructions that enhance programming flexibility and performance across various applications, particularly in assembly language development.
This distinction becomes evident when you examine specific examples, such as the 8086’s support for a broader range of arithmetic and logical operations, as well as its capability to manage complex addressing modes.
For instance, while the 8085 primarily focuses on 8-bit operations, the 8086 efficiently processes 16-bit data, making it inherently more powerful for modern software requirements.
Due to these differences, you may find that developing robust algorithms is considerably easier on the 8086 platform, where enhanced instructions streamline tasks such as memory manipulation and data transfers.
This ultimately leads to more efficient and optimized applications, positively affecting everything from system performance to resource utilization in real-world scenarios.
Data Bus
The data bus width is a critical factor in determining the performance capabilities of the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors.
The 8085 utilizes an 8-bit data bus, while the 8086 employs a 16-bit data bus.
This difference significantly impacts their efficiency in data processing.
With the 16-bit data bus, the 8086 can transfer twice as much data in a single cycle compared to the 8085.
This results in faster performance during tasks that demand heavy data handling, such as processing complex algorithms or managing memory resources.
For example, when loading large datasets into RAM, the 8086 can accomplish this in shorter timeframes, thereby enhancing overall system throughput.
Wider data buses also facilitate better communication between the CPU and peripheral devices, which is essential for applications that require real-time data transfer, such as video processing or high-frequency trading systems.
Therefore, the data bus width of a microprocessor plays an essential role in defining not only its speed but also the robustness of its operations in various computing environments.
Address Bus
The address bus width serves as a key differentiator between the 8085 and the 8086 processors.
The 8085 is equipped with a 16-bit address bus, which can address up to 64KB of memory.
In contrast, the 8086 features a 20-bit address bus, enabling access to up to 1MB of memory.
This distinction facilitates improved memory management and enhances application performance.
This variation in addressable memory not only affects the volume of data that can be processed but also influences the overall system architecture and design considerations.
For example, in larger or more complex applications, developers must take into account the limitations imposed by the address bus width, as this can significantly restrict system capabilities.
A wider address bus offers greater flexibility for managing larger datasets and executing more sophisticated programs, ultimately leading to improved performance and efficiency.
Therefore, when designing systems that necessitate robust memory handling, engineers often prefer processors with wider address buses to ensure scalability and performance, positioning themselves to meet future demands effectively.
Memory Segmentation

Memory segmentation is a critical feature of the 8086 microprocessor that facilitates more efficient utilization of memory resources.
This enables you to manage larger code bases and data structures, especially when compared to the 8085’s flat memory model.
This capability fundamentally alters your approach to application development by dividing memory into distinct segments for code, data, and stack.
This organization helps you manage information more logically and reduces the likelihood of memory-related errors.
The segmented memory model not only enhances the modularity and reusability of your code but also optimizes performance by allowing the system to load and execute segments independently.
As a result, this architecture supports multitasking more effectively, paving the way for applications that require real-time processing and larger memory capacities, ultimately improving system responsiveness and the user experience.
Pin Configuration
The pin configuration of the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors highlights critical differences in their hardware interfaces, with the 8086 featuring a more complex pin configuration that supports advanced functionalities, such as a multiprocessor environment and enhanced input/output operations.
This complexity not only facilitates improved communication protocols but also significantly influences how hardware designers approach integration within various digital systems.
For example, the 8085’s simpler layout, characterized by fewer pins dedicated to specific functions, allows for easier implementation in straightforward designs, making it particularly well-suited for embedded applications.
In contrast, the versatility of the 8086 indicates that more sophisticated system architectures can be achieved, accommodating a greater number of peripherals and enabling the execution of more complex tasks simultaneously.
These distinctions directly impact your decisions regarding system scalability, component compatibility, and overall performance optimization.
Clock Speed
Clock speed is a crucial factor that impacts the performance of both the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors.
Generally, the 8086 operates at higher clock speeds, which allows for faster instruction execution and enhances computational efficiency in system design.
This increase in clock speed not only improves processing capabilities but also affects other design considerations, such as power consumption and heat generation.
For example, the 8085 typically operates at a clock speed of 3 to 6 MHz, whereas the 8086 can reach speeds of 10 MHz or higher.
These variations highlight the importance of selecting an appropriate clock speed for your specific applications, as higher speeds can lead to better performance in complex tasks like multimedia processing or multitasking environments.
As a designer, you must balance these considerations to optimize efficiency while maintaining system reliability.
Interrupts
The interrupt system in the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors is essential for managing events and processing tasks, with the 8086 offering a more advanced mechanism for handling interrupts, which enhances performance and error handling capabilities.
This distinction leads to different methodologies for interrupt handling, significantly impacting system responsiveness.
The 8085 supports five hardware interrupts and one software interrupt, employing a simpler vectoring process.
In contrast, the 8086 introduces a more intricate approach with its eight external interrupt lines and a comprehensive interrupt vector table.
This architecture enables the 8086 to prioritize interrupts, manage them more effectively, and reduce latency during critical processing periods.
As a result, the differences in how these two processors handle interruptions not only affect their operational efficiency but also determine their suitability for various application scenarios, contributing to the 8086’s dominance in more advanced computing environments.
Power Consumption
Power consumption is a significant factor to consider when comparing the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors.
The 8085 generally consumes less power, making it a suitable choice for low-power embedded systems.
In contrast, the 8086 offers higher performance but comes with increased power usage.
This trade-off between energy efficiency and computational capability is a critical aspect that influences various system design decisions.
For example, if you are designing portable devices, prioritizing low power consumption is essential to extend battery life, which may lead you to favor the 8085.
On the other hand, if your application requires high-speed data processing, you might opt for the 8086, despite its higher energy demands.
With the advent of modern technologies, these considerations are evolving.
System architects often explore dynamic power management techniques to optimize performance while minimizing energy usage.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for selecting the most appropriate microprocessor to meet specific application requirements.
Cost
The cost of the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors varies significantly, with the 8085 being a more economical choice for basic applications.
In contrast, while the 8086 is more expensive, it offers advanced features, better performance, and compatibility with modern hardware requirements.
When choosing between these two microprocessors, it is essential to carefully consider the financial implications that extend beyond the initial purchase price.
For example, although the 8085 may save you money upfront, its limited capabilities could hinder scalability in more demanding applications, potentially leading to higher costs for future upgrades.
Conversely, the superior performance and compatibility of the 8086 with contemporary technologies may justify the investment, as it can efficiently handle more complex tasks and integrate seamlessly with advanced peripherals.
Therefore, evaluating the long-term value for system design is crucial, as selecting a more capable processor can result in significant cost savings over time, both in operational efficiency and in reducing the need for replacements or modifications.
Which One is Better: 8085 or 8086?

Determining whether the 8085 or 8086 microprocessor is more suitable for your needs requires careful consideration of several factors, including performance requirements, application complexity, and system design specifications.
The 8085 is well-suited for simpler and more cost-effective solutions, whereas the 8086 is designed to excel in environments that demand higher processing power and advanced features.
Applications of 8085 and 8086 Microprocessors
The applications of the 8085 and 8086 microprocessors cover a diverse array of fields, ranging from embedded systems to complex computing environments.
Each microprocessor serves distinct functions tailored to different technological requirements.
The 8085 is typically employed in simpler tasks, such as basic control systems, while the 8086 is utilized in more demanding applications, including personal computers and advanced embedded systems.
8085 Applications
The 8085 microprocessor is commonly utilized in a range of applications that require straightforward processing and control, particularly within embedded systems and educational environments, where its 8-bit architecture is well-suited to basic computational requirements.
In control systems, for example, it is frequently employed to operate appliances such as washing machines and microwaves, where precise control is crucial for efficiency.
In digital circuits, it effectively manages tasks in devices like digital clocks and traffic light systems, demonstrating its versatility.
Educational institutions leverage the 8085 as a teaching tool, allowing students to gain familiarity with microprocessor concepts through hands-on experience in programming and hardware interfacing.
These practical applications highlight the ongoing significance of the 8085 microprocessor in both industry and academia.
8086 Applications
The 8086 microprocessor is utilized in advanced computing environments, such as personal computers and high-performance embedded systems, where its 16-bit architecture and enhanced instruction set offer significant advantages.
This versatility makes it a preferred choice for a variety of data processing tasks, enabling efficient execution of complex algorithms and real-time computations.
It plays a critical role in electronic systems that require reliability, including industrial control systems and telecommunications equipment.
Its capability to manage multiple data streams simultaneously enhances performance in applications that range from embedded systems in automotive technologies to sophisticated computing platforms in research laboratories.
By bridging the gap between hardware capabilities and software requirements, the 8086 microprocessor continues to demonstrate its value in modern computing, highlighting its legacy in the evolution of microprocessing technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 8085 and 8086 Microprocessor?
The 8085 and 8086 microprocessors are two different models of microprocessors developed by Intel. The main difference between them is their architecture, size, and capabilities.
What is the architecture of 8085 and 8086 Microprocessor?
The 8085 microprocessor has an 8-bit architecture, meaning it can process 8 bits of data at a time. On the other hand, the 8086 microprocessor has a 16-bit architecture, allowing it to process 16 bits of data at a time.
What is the difference in size between 8085 and 8086 Microprocessor?
The 8085 microprocessor has a 40-pin chip, while the 8086 microprocessor has a 68-pin chip. This means that the 8086 microprocessor is physically larger than the 8085 microprocessor.
What are the capabilities of 8085 and 8086 Microprocessor?
The 8085 microprocessor has a maximum addressable memory of 64 KB, while the 8086 microprocessor can address up to 1 MB of memory. This gives the 8086 microprocessor a larger memory space and the ability to handle more complex tasks.
Which microprocessor is better for multitasking?
The 8086 microprocessor has a higher processing speed and a larger memory space, making it more suitable for multitasking compared to the 8085 microprocessor. It can handle multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising on performance.
What is the main advantage of using 8086 Microprocessor over 8085?
The 8086 microprocessor has a more advanced instruction set and a faster clock speed, making it more efficient in handling complex tasks and data processing. It also has a wider range of operating modes, providing more flexibility in programming. These factors give 8086 an advantage over the 8085 microprocessor.