Hello,
 I've start with this web page:
http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Way/5807/
 Microchip has  a lot of information and a free assembler and simulator, in
                http://www.microchip.com

 Then you need a PIC part (the 16F84 is great and cheap) and a programmer,
I've build the LUDIPIPO programmer, very cheap and reliable.

 good luck,
  Adolfo.

At 09:25 4/09/97 +1000, you wrote:
>G'day all,
>
>I'm a computer technician in Cairns, Queensland, Australia.
>I trained as a radio tech in the RAAF and then as a Computer Tech Also in the
> RAAF.
>I am interested in computer control systems. I worked for Honey in the
> Industrial Service Division for 4 years so I have a working
>knowledge of Process Control.
>I am currently working on project that use the parallel printer port of a
pc for
> control.
>I would like to learn about the world of PIC. I have more than 20 years
> experience with electronics and 18 years experience with
>computers. I have found a few FAQs on the net but they only seem to cover
a bit
> of history.
>1: Where do I start?
>2: What do I need?
>3: Is there a better, easier, cheaper PIC?
>
>That will do for now, Thanks,
>