Thanks for everyone's input thusfar. I do get the impression that perhaps I didn't explain the purpose of the Chips database sufficiently.

First, it will only contain 8052-compatible MCUs. The Chips database at this site isn't for searching for AND gates, latches, and whatnot. It'll be only to search 8052 derivatives so that, at the outset of a project, it may be easier to decide which derivative chip is most appropriate.

On a recent project we had a number of requirements... Pin-compatible with a standard 8052, industrial temperature range, a certain amount of on-chip ISP code memory, and a number of other parameters. We knew a suitable chip had to exist, but it took us literally hours to review individual datasheets for each MCU from many different semiconductor firms. It would have been nice to be able to log on to 8052.com, specify our search criteria, and get a list of the MCUs that met our needs. At that point, of course, reviewing the datasheet directly from the manufacturers would confirm our selection.

That being said, while Google is my favorite search engine, it's not going to be useful in terms of finding the specific 8052-compatible MCUs that meet certain technical requirements.

That also being said, it is reasonable to include supported crystal frequencies because that specification does apply to all the chips that will be contained in the database, since the database will only contain 8052 parts.

The Chips database at Keil which was previously mentioned appears to be useful, but it is not 8052-specific enough to help in the selection process. That is to say, I couldn't do a search to bring up "all 8052-compatible MCUs that have 2k ISP code memory, 2k on-chip XRAM, run at at least 20MHZ, and have an 8-bit ADC." That's the kind of search I want to be able to execute in the 8052.com Chips Database.

There are hundreds of 8052 derivatives and most of us don't have the specifications of each one memorized.

The idea for pricing and availability are both great ideas--although difficult from a maintenance standpoint. Pricing can vary based on source and quantity, as can availability. Keeping this information current would require either assistance from 8052.com visitors or from the manufacturers themselves.

In any case, the types of specifications that I'm thinking of including in the database are items such as:

1. Crystal speed supported.
2. Amount of on-chip code memory
3. Type of on-chip code memory (ISP, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.)
4. Amount of on-chip XRAM/SRAM
5. Temperature rating
6. Number of timers
7. Number of serial ports
8. A/D and D/A convertors
9. Presentations (DIP, PLCC, etc.)
10. Watchdog timer
11. Integrated RTC
12. Integrated I2C/SPI

... things like that. Any other ideas that should be added to the list? I like availability and pricing if we can figure out a way to have the information maintained...

Craig Steiner