Jesse Lackey wrote:
> I'm curious about the Cygnal parts as a wholesale alternative to the
> PIC,

I looked at the product line a few months ago.  I don't remember the
details, but my conclusion was that it was rather narrow and just another
micro.  One notable exception is they have impressive integrated A/D
capabilities on some parts.  They seem to distinguish themselves with
their analog handling capabilities in general.

> to permanently abandon mchip and unfortunately my monetary
> investment in PIC tools and mental investment in knowing technical
> details across their product line.

It seems to me you are doing this for emotional reasons.  You feel pissed
off and burnt, and want to "punish" them by taking your business away.
That won't work.  You'll just end up punishing yourself.

Think it thru logically and you will see that Microchip has a very broad
product line of generally competent microcontrollers.  And, this product
line is getting wider daily, soon to expanded considerably by the dsPICs.

Their support is also second to none by a long shot.  Have you ever tried
talking to someone intelligent at Intel about an 8051 problem?  The names
and phone numbers of the local office people are closely guarded secrets.
Try it some time if you don't believe me.  Motorola passes you off to
distributors for first line support.  These people never know anything
beyond what's in the manual, and don't really want to waste time with a
design that won't result in volume sales in their territory.


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