Over the last week I have created my first few simple PIC programs (led
blinking, switch counting, etc) and have developed a few questions.  For
my projects I am using a 16F84, but I am interested in (and have the
programmer for) using other PICs.

Regarding outputs...

I have a 5V lamp, and I do not know how much current it needs.  Is there
anyway to figure this out with a multimeter?  Let's say it uses 50
milliamps.  I could then hook it up to two outputs to drive it; correct?
Of course I could also drive it with a transistor, such as a 2N2222 or a
2N7000 right?  How does one choose the right transistor for the right
output (ie this transistor is good for this small lamp and this one is
good for this motor).

Regarding Inputs...

I'd like to have sensors hooked up to some of my PIC projects.  Let's say
I am using a photoresistor.  Normally I'd think to use a CMOS comparator.
IS there a good cheap comparator that works with the PIC (I've never
worked with a comparator, just know them in theory, so a part name would
be helpful)? Do PICs have any built in comparator features or is there a
better way to do this which I am overlooking?

Ok, That's all.  I know that these are relatively simple questions which
should be obtainable all over the place, but I assure you've I've been
around and looking, and have found unsatisfactory->no answers, so I felt
like this list would be a good place to get the answers.  One more thing,
is there a web based interface to this list's archives?

Thanks a lot a lot a lot.

Nathan Hendler