Now that systems are so powerful, there doesn't seem to be anything like the fun challenge of trying to get the most out of some 8-bit micro and with less than 64kb memory. Is there something (that isn't an emulator) which can provide a similar experience?
+2
A:
EdSim51 is a free 8051 simulator. The 8051 is a great microcontroller.
The simulator has a virtual keypad and LCD display.
The BASIC Stamps are good too.
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2117994 http://www.parallax.com/tabid/295/Default.aspx
Matt Spradley
2009-05-28 20:17:07
+9
A:
Check out the http://www.arduino.cc/. There are lots of project ideas based on it if you Google for it.
Brian Ensink
2009-05-28 20:18:53
What are the options for small displays for these, e.g. LCD/OLED?
Rob Kam
2009-05-29 19:59:38
I wish I could answer that but I haven't started tinkering with the arduino yet.
Brian Ensink
2009-05-30 04:10:52
Unfortunately the Arduino Touch Shield is not low cost.
Rob Kam
2009-06-01 08:05:15
There are thousands of small LCD options. You can get a 20x2 character (7x5) LCD including a serial driver for a few dollars. If you want graphics, a 160x120 12-bit RGB LCD will run you maybe $20 at QTY=1
Sparr
2009-06-01 19:18:36
+3
A:
I always wanted to try out the BASIC Stamp modules but have never quite found the time.
David McEwing
2009-05-28 20:19:02
+3
A:
Many of the kits available from Adafruit Industries are based on 8-bit AVR microcontrollers, excellent for electronics and programming tinkering.
Sparr
2009-05-28 20:20:34
+1
A:
The Arduino is a great starter CPU. I've used boarduinos to program other AVR microprocessors as well. BASIC stamps are easy to use, but I think the price for what you get is poor.
Eclipse with the AVR plugins makes a great Arduino development environment (what I use right now).
Chris Kaminski
2009-05-28 21:06:41
A:
There are also some interesting kits mentioned in response to the What’s the best way to learn how to build circuits question.
Rob Kam
2009-05-29 18:38:31
A:
If you just want fun out-of-box programming, have a look at a Tandy TRS-80 Model 100. It boots up instantly, runs on 4 AA batteries, has a very sharp LCD display and built in BASIC. The keyboard is fantastic! A working model can be as low as $75 (See the Club 100 Store).
I like the 8-bit AVR microcontrollers, but sometimes it is nice to have a big LCD, an interpreted language and a keyboard. Have fun.
Edi H
2009-10-08 17:50:27