[Elecraft] Angle of attack - PIC Question - WAY off topic!

[Bob - AG5Q]

Hi Dan,

The PIC is a really nice little processor and the cost is low.   I've used the PIC and it's good, although the assembly language is
awkward to use.  They have some new chips like the 16F876A and the 18F242 which are much better than the chips that were available 5
years ago.  The recommended development kit is DV164006.  However, this does not include the 'C' compiler.

The biggest problem with most small micros is acquiring the development tools and learning to use them.
This can cost a several hundred dollars.  Even the tools for the PIC are in this range unless you program in assembly language, in
which case the development tools are only a few dollars but the programming task is much harder than doing it in 'C'.

Recently Zilog has come out with a nice controller they call the eZ8 Encore. They have a very nice development board and a complete
'C' compiler (not a limited version, like most low cost kits). This is only $50 and the chips themselves are in the $5-$10 range.
You can even get the chips in dip packages, which is a real plus for home assembly.  I've been playing with one of these and it's a
friendly development system.  Mouser has them, part #692-Z8ENCORE000ZC0.

73/ Bob - AG5Q


>
> I <think> I need a PIC controller for my new gizmo. It will most likely turn
> into a Finite State Automaton, with states and events to control:
>