> Talk to me not about the part, but about the toolchain. Tell us about
the
> development tools and programmers you'd suggest a new user use to get
started.
>
> Then I'll ask you about my curveballs, neither of which you are
interested in
> (my impression from past conversations with you on the subject):
>
> 1) A usable toolchain for non Windows environments.
> 2) A low cost and easy to obtain toolchain.
>
> And of course in the put up or shut up category, here's my list for the
> curveballs:
>
>     Platform: Slackware Linux 8.1
>         Part: 16F877
>   Programmer: TLVP used to install WLoader bootloader
> Dev Software: JAL 04-50 or gpasm 0.10.4
>    Simulator: gpsim 0.20.12
>
> Total cost is under $25 USD.
>
> The point I'm making is that it's isn't a cut and dried choice.

OK Byron, I agree Mike was being harsh and I don't even agree with what he
said, but I don't think this is the best way to start with PICs either.
The **standard** development environment for PICs is Microchip's MPLAB,
which is free on their web site.  This is what most examples out there are
written for, and what you'll get the most support for, including this
list.  Yes, it runs on Windows, like most everything else does.  Most
people already have a Windows machine for other reasons, so MPLAB is
completely free.

I would also advise to get a real programmer as I've seen too many newbies
here with TLVP programmer problems.  In addition, if someone first wants
to really *learn* PICs (as apposed to quickly getting a complicated
project working), then assembler is the way to start.  Even if someone
ends up using a higher level language once they get going, the insight
gained from doing a few assembler projects will be valuable.


*****************************************************************
Embed Inc, embedded system specialists in Littleton Massachusetts
(978) 742-9014, http://www.embedinc.com

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