555 timer

[Kevin Weddle]

Simple circuits such as the 555 IC are still being used. Microprocessors use a variety of simple circuits so as not to introduce unnecessary problems. So why do so many electronics products have so many components?

 

[shardik1]

Some manufacturers might find it cheaper to use existing technology than to design a new chip from the ground up, a process which can be VERY lengthy and expensive.  Although in my experience it seems quite the contrary. I find less components are used as of late in favor of such microprocessors.