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
completely independent of the PC. Besides my thermostat needs, I can
see possible future applications in my beer brewing hobby, so I am
definitely interested at this point; for example, if I'd eventually like
to build either a RIMS or HERMS (for non-brewers, that would be a
"Recirculating Infusion Mash System" using a magnetic pump to circulate
the liquid in the mash to help keep it uniform in pH and temp, and a
"Heat Exchange Recirculating Mash System" which also actually controls
the temp through various stages). Both of those systems can be designed
to be fully computerized with temp sensors, PID controllers, solenoid
valves, and magnetic pumps.

At this point I'm not seeking technical help to solve a specific
problem. Rather, I'd just appreciate some insight into what I'd likely
be facing in this area, and also the sort of other 'fringe' benefits
(like a cool hobby) that I might derive from this in order to become
involved; for instance, if I purchase a bit of equipment, take my time
learning all of this stuff, and then build my project, what other sorts
of things can typically be done with this technology? What sort of
costs am I facing -- at a minimum -- especially if I have only a
soldering iron and a simple multimeter? What kind of learning curve
will I be facing? ... and will I need to learn the equivalent of what it
takes to earn an associate's degree, or perhaps just a single college
course? Is there a website or FAQ page that will start me out with a
good overview of this area of technology, explaining how the entire
process works?

Thank you for any help.

Bill Velek