1) Two times. Quoting Seiko:

"The initial hex code 30,34, or 38 is sent two or more times to ensure the module enters the 8-bit or 4-bit data mode".

The example to investigate is the LCD waking in 4 bit mode.

2)No. The "$" is short-hand derived from old DEC assemblers meaning "the start address of this assembly line. It is the equivalent of:

READY:
SETB P1.7 ;make p1.7 input port
CLR RS ;RS=0 access command reg
SETB RW ;R/W=1 read command reg
CLR CE ;E=1 for H to L pulse
SETB CE ;E=0 H to L pulse
BACK:
JB P1.7,BACK ;stay until busy flag=0
RET

3) This is in the book. The difference (if it correctly assembles) is 2 bytes=acall; 3 bytes=lcall. Use an assembler which minds this for you.

4) "FDh = 9600 = 10416.66 = +8%.

http://www.keil.com/support/docs/1904.htm

I never have used the Ready bit when xfacing to an LCD. Does the Ready BIT Latch when Read or is it real time???

regards,
p