The first widely adopted 8-bit microprocessor was the Intel
8080, being used in many smart cards and hobbyist computers of
the late 1970s and early 1980s, often running the CP/M operating
system. The Zilog Z80 (compatible with the 8080) and the
Motorola 6800 were also used in similar computers. The Z80 and
the MOS Technology 6502 8-bit CPUs were widely used in home
computers and game consoles of the 70s and 80s. Many 8-bit CPUs
or microcontrollers are the basis of today's ubiquitous embedded
systems. There are 28 (256) possible values for 8 bits.(in
binary) About 55% of all CPUs sold in the world are 8-bit
microcontrollers or microprocessors. Examples of 8-bit
processors (very incomplete): Reaching down: 32-bit processors
aim for 8 bits: the ongoing effort to supply low-cost, 32-bit
processors has them beginning to encroach on the territory that
8-bit processors now own.(design feature) May 01, 2005; A new
breed of low-cost, 32-bit devices is targeting the healthy
market share that 8- and 16-bit devices have