Ravindra Divekar wrote:
>
>
> the Basic stamps are such a good idea,
> because then you dont need to add a crystal oscillator
> externally.
> But the basic interpreter makes them costly, especially
> for people who would rather program in assembly, than basic.
> Imagine a BS-2 from Parallax without basic, but at half the price.
> what a wonderful idea !!

Check out http://www.parallaxinc.com I think Microchip are going
see some healthy competition. I hope I don't get sued, but here's a
snippet form their claim :

Rocklin, California, August 6, 1997 - Parallax, Inc. announced the
"SX Key", an integrated development system which significantly
advances development tool technology. The development system was
designed for use with Scenix Semiconductor's new SX 8-bit
microcontroller. The new low cost micro is EEPROM based and, at
50 MIPS, holds title as the fastest 8-bit micro in the world.

Note : EEPROM based *AND* 50 MIPS! Wow! From the rest of the
anouncement it seems as if there is an on-board ICE (like Motorola)
and Zero programmer components (I could be wrong).

It remains to be seen if the Scenix vapourware has more substance
than the Microchip vapourware...

Perhaps we will see a "The truth about Scenix" section next to
the "The truth about the AVR" section on Microchip's homepage.
How very, very, very immature.

--
Friendly Regards

Tjaart van der Walt
mailto:tjaart@wasp.co.za
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