All,

 Just as an FYI, you don't have to download anything at all.
 Just talk to you Microchip disty in your area, or contact
 Microchip directly and ask for their CD.  It has MPLAB on it,
 as well as all the Ap-Notes and data sheets.  It is basically
 an image of their website, so if you can navigate one, you can
 navigate the other as well.  Beats downloading a large file.
 And you alway have the data ready and at your fingertips.

                                             Regards,

                                               Jim



On Fri, 10 December 1999, Peter wrote:

>
> The operative word is 'beginner'. Why should 8MB of program called MPLAB be
> dumped on a beginner? How many people are put off when told they must d/l a
> program about the same size as IE5 in order to 'begin' a possible hobby.
>
> My Kit 81 has its own assembler (Manning) specifically written for the
> PIC16F84. There are no other PICs or 8MB of code options to
> confuse/intimidate the beginner.
>
> The programmer software is the free proven software of P16PRO Lite,
> specifically for the 16F84.
>
> The latest version of this pcb now shipping (K81V4 photo on my website) has
> the test socket and 5 LEDs so the beginner can immediately see that his
> first program has been a success. To me this is what a beginner need -
> simple tools and reinforcement to build confidence.
>
> Jaycar in Australia are now selling about 100 per month of my Kit 81.
>
> Kit 81 to me is a 'beginners' programmer.
>
>
> 2. THEN after finding their feet they can assess PIC's other than the 16F84
> and thus look at other programmers and d/l the required fully featured MPLAB.
> regards,
>
> Peter Crowcroft
>                     DIY Electronics (HK) Ltd
>                 PO Box 88458, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
> Voice: 852-2720 0255   Fax: 852-2725 0610    Email: peter@kitsrus.com
>   Web: http://kitsrus.com    Betawebsite: http://www.picturefinders.com
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------

jim@jpes.com