Bill Velek wrote in message ...
While in the process of trying to find a solution to a problem, I
received several suggestions that PIC or Basic-Stamps might be a
solution. In order to fairly evaluate those suggestions, and decide
whether or not I'm capable enough to use that approach, I'd like to get
a good overview of what I'll be facing. I've joined another e-list for
basic-micros -- Parallax's forum -- but so far I haven't received an
adequate answer to the questions that I'll pose here. I _think_ this
would be on-topic here, and I hope no one minds.
What I'm looking for is links to sites that will give a broad general
explanation to a complete novice of the nature and potential of PIC and
Basic-Stamps; I've done a some googling without coming up with anything
that is very helpful, so I might be way off base right now.
My impression is that these are simply chips that can be programmed
(perhaps something like an EPROM?), but it is done with very simple
basic-language programs that are fairly short with relatively few
instructions, and that the programming is done on a computer and then
loaded onto the chip via a cable linking the chip and a PC. Then the
chip can be installed on a small circuit board of some sort (e.g., a
thermostat), after which it is then able to run the basic-program
Thank you for any help.
Bill Velek
You might look at the PICAXE at
http://www.picaxe.co.uk. A very small
fraction of the price of the Basic Stamps with far more capabilities.
For example, the PICAXE-08M is about $3.25 and is comaprable with the
$29.00 Basic Stamp 1 with the added capability of 10-bit A/D and PWM.
The PICAXE-18X at $10.00 is comparable with the $49.00 Basic Stamp 2.
The software and docs are free at the PICAXE website. You wil need a
breadboard of some type, a source of +5 VDC and a connection to the PC
COM port.
There are many applications at the PICAXE site. More at my site;
http://www.phanderson.com/picaxe/picaxe.html
Most code written for the Basic Stamp can be adapted to the PICAXE
with minimal effort.
Another plus for the PICAXE is that they are modern PICs and you can
move your design to good quality boards such as at;
http://www.olimex.com/dev/ See "PIC"
Best wishes.
PH Anderson