Hi...

I just subscribed to the list minutes ago.  I'm into
robotics and electronics and have tinkered a little
with the Z80 microprocessor and studied the 68HC11
(never used it, though).  It's time for me to learn
something about PICs, as I have some projects that
ought to be perfect for them.

I'd love to get an overview of the different families
so I can choose a direction to get started in.  I've
been seeing the 16C84 mentioned quite a bit as a great
way to get started.

I want plenty of I/O, memory, and I think using EEPROM
or flash would be least annoying to do development on.
Is the 16C84 right for me, or are there others (more
memory, perhaps) that would be better suited to my wants?

I've glanced at the PIC FAQ and realize that there is
just too much info out there for me to sift through,
which is why I'm here asking for advice.

I'd love to get enough info that I can make my first
purchase of programmer and chips this coming Saturday.

Thanks in advance for any info!  :)

-Chris
chrisp@fullsw.com