> It keeps getting called a "kit" - but I thought the original concept was for > a fully tested and functional unit that the newbies couldn't screw up? > > I mean, if they can be confident that the programmer works, they can > concentrate on working out why their first PIC program does not. We should > supply a number of ASM and/or C and HEX files for various Flash chips that > they can burn straight out of the box. Maybe even a little demo board too. > If that works, they know the programmer and setup all works and get on with > their own project(s). > > Let's clarify this in the early stages. Before you guys get too far, I sorta remember somebody on this list already developed a PIC programmer and it was being sold thru piclist.com. Something like the "PIC Pocket". You might want to check the archives. Personally, I find the Picstart+ a bargain. Guaranteed to work, supports the whole product line, integrated into MPLAB, and at a cost of a small fraction of a man-day it is cheaper than even the labor to build one yourself. The math may be a little different for hobbyists, but many of them with real day jobs will want to get on with their projects instead of spending time building tools. Unemployed students are probably the prime target for your concept, but the number of them that don't have other access to a PIC programmer is probably limited. While I don't want to diffuse your enthusiasm, I suggest you investigate the demand for the project you are considering, even at its low cost. I think it will be hard to justify the effort rationally. You will collectively spend more resources than you will save the limited number of people that will make use of it. Of course if you want to do it just because you want to, then rationality need not apply - go have fun. OK, I'll shut up now. ***************************************************************** Embed Inc, embedded system specialists in Littleton Massachusetts (978) 742-9014, http://www.embedinc.com -- http://www.piclist.com hint: To leave the PICList mailto:piclist-unsubscribe-request@mitvma.mit.edu