I'd like to build an embedded device that takes in a thermocoupleinput, and then, if the temperature is below the user-specified setpoint, activates a relay (which would power an electric heater), andthen, when the thermocouple senses the temperature has reached / isgreater than the set point, de-energizes the relay.I've got some experience with assembler (80386) and C.I was thinking of going with the Atmel ATTINY12-8PC (only 8 pins, anda whopping 1kb of flash RAM, just $1.55 at Jameco), but then I read onthe newsgroups that finding a programmer for this is impossible... isthis true?I've also heard that PIC's C tools are not free... is this still true,or has this changed?The local junior college teaches a microcontrollers class, but alas, itis M/W 8am-noon, right when I have work. (This is a non-work-relatedhobby project, by the way.) I e-mailed the professor, and he gave methe book they use, but it seems they will be starting with the 8088...Any suggestions, pointers? Would I be better off just buying aprogrammer, or could someone at my skill level assemble (no punintended) my own?Thanks...Michael

The HI-Tech PIC-C compiler is free for limited devices.I believe the Microchip PIC-18 C compiler is now essentially free, withonly some minor limitations.By far the easiest way to get into micros is with the PIC-AXE devices.No need for a programmer, programmed in BASIC, and you don't have toworry about all the little annoying traits of a particular micro andprogrammer . Using a programmer and C or assembler for a first timercan be really annoying. If it doesn't work first go becuase you gotsome configuration bit incorrect then it just sits there looking stupidat you until you magically figure it all out.Once you have overcome the configuration bit/programmer hurdle though,that is the way to go.Only go with either PIC or Atmel AVR, there is just so much support outthere for both of them. Each have their pros and cons.Have fun.Dave :)

ultra-newbie: picking a first microcontroller?

Jun 05, 2006 21 Replies

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mrdarrett 20 years ago

I was afraid of that... but I'm sure I have one of those ribbons in my box'o'computer-junk in the garage...

What did you DO?

Sho' will...

Mikr

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Rich Grise, Plainclothes Hippi 20 years ago

It seems I choked back too far on the wire, getting into untinned territory, and tried to shove it into a virgin hole, pardon the innuendo. ;-) Turns out you have to hold the wire much closer to its end, and sort of massage it into the hole, gently spreading the petals of the receptive flower of the contact area...

Cheers! Rich

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