>
>    Harold, thanks. As far as a quadrature encoder, I wanted to know the
> absolute position. For example, what if there was a power failure when the
> oven was set to 300F. How would I know where the dial was set? I could use
> battery backup but I want to keep this simple and fairly `bullet proof'. I
> like Lawrence's approach using a Pot.

Two or three possibilities:

1) It seems to me that any controller needs feedback. One could get the
current temp from a temp sensor.

2) Write the current temp into a EEPROM. a 24L00 are like a nickel each
and only requires two lines to talk to.

3) The obvious answer: start with the oven off. While debateable for short
glitches, clearly if the power is off for a long time, refiring up the oven
may not be a good idea.

BAJ