>6) I want to use a pic for a dimmer switch. what is the easiest way to tap
>5vdc from a 220vac line. I want to mount it inside the light switch cover if
>at all possible.
>

Email me in 12 hrs, I'll be at work where my files are. There is a
suggested circuit contributed by a Yugoslav engineer and I've got the code
for it somewhere. IIRC there were three implementations - the first was
just a switch, the second used an up and a down pushbutton to set the power
level. Both of those worked with a 12C508/9. The circuit uses a primitive
power supply that operates right off the 240V 50Hz line. The third one used
a 12C671/2 and a pot.

Eduardo Rivera also did some experimenting with this circuit. He put some
info up on his website at umemphis.edu. You still around, Eduardo?

If you're only talking about a couple of hundred watt load, the circuit and
the SSR should fit into an outlet box OK.

Reg Neale