> The compiler costs around $100,

Since your objective is to learn, I suggest you get the free development
software from Microchip.  This is called MPLAB, and includes an assembler,
librarian, linker, and integrated development environment.  That will save
$100 right there.

Even if you eventually end up writing PIC code in a high level language, it
will be very useful to have the kind of understanding about what goes on at
the machine level that only comes from assembly language experience.

Mircochip also has all the literature on their web site for free that you
need to program PICs.  Some publications may be more useful in paper form.
I suggest you ask your local Microchip office for an MPLAB package.  It
includes the software on CD, a CD with all the data sheets and other
literature, and hard copies of the assembler and MPLAB manuals.  This will
be exactly what you need.

> the EPIC programming board & programming
> diskette costs $59, and the PIC 16F84 microcontroller goes for $7.

Don't get the 16F84.  At the very least, there's a new chip that is pin
compatible, does more, and costs less.  I forget which one, but I'm sure a
dozen hobbiests will jump in here and tell you.  Personally I would start
with the 16F876.  It is a full featured chip that will still be useful for
your next project and a few after that.  These can still be had for under
$10, so no big difference in price.

> I would like to
> learn the technology and use my book but is there a cheaper alternative?

You've already spent the money for the book, so its cost is irrelevant at
this point.  Book or not, I still recommend Microchip MPLAB.  It's also what
you'll get the most help with here on the PIC list.


********************************************************************
Olin Lathrop, embedded systems consultant in Littleton Massachusetts
(978) 742-9014, olin@embedinc.com, http://www.embedinc.com

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