Where can I find an inexpensive micro-controller programmer?
Answer:
Cypress has a new family of micros that I have just started using at work. The more I look at them the more I find uses for them. The are the PSoC (programmable system on chip). These are programmable microcontrollers, but they also have digital and analog hardware blocks that can be activated. If you want an A/D converter or D/A converter, UART, op-amp, I2C interface, shift register, etc. it can be set in the hardware blocks. The micro has access to all pins as well.
The really neat thing about the PSoC is the development system. PSoC designer is free, and it configures all the hardware and most of the software for you. You only have to write some simple C or assembly language software to glue the API to your specific needs.
Here is the best part for you... The programmer (mini-prog) is only $35. It uses USB to connect to the PC and a 5 pin header to connect to the target.
Check it out at
http://www.cypress.com
Edmund Scientific has a project kit for $150. If you're trying to go any cheaper than that it's time to get involved with surplus stores and swapmeets. try Googling "microcontroller projects" for some ideas on build-it-yourself rigs.
you should check out TI's MSP430 Micro-controllers
You can get a USB-Jtag debugger/Programmer and a target board for $100 includes IAR C++ compiler(4K compiled code Limit)
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