Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
I'm with Trebuchet, because of my experience with this stuff ( = nil).
The thing that appeals to me about the Arduino is that it's ready to go, and I understand the programming process - plug it into a PC serial port and install the code.
I wouldn't know where to begin if I also had to select components & make the platform.
How is an atmega or other IC programmed?
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It seems that the arduino uses an atmega168 microcontroller w/ a bootloader, so it is programmed directly via serial/usb. I think other IC's (PIC, BASIC Stamp, etc.) require a board to interface with a computer via serial.
Really old stuff (EPROM) requires data to be erased by UV and then loaded. Thank goodness it's not 1984...
Since I also have no experience I won't advocate the tough path anymore.
It just seemed like the logical path if the experience can be found in this board. Essentially, the end product would be MegaSquirt-esque: purchase components, solder, download code, install, done...
If the arduino path is taken, another option is the
freeduino:
completely open source + USB. ~$24
Info for getting an LCD up and running. Apparently, to have buttons, input pins available, and run an LCD it needs to operate in 4-bit mode. Here's what I've found so far.
Reasoning
LCD interface in 8-bit
LCD interface in 4-bit
Source of LCD's (w/ or w/o backlighting) ~$15-20
This is kind of dumb, but what about an
"analog" fuel economy gauge?
- LostCause