Bret,

Your question about chosing a micro to start experimenting is difficult because the technology is changing at this minute.

The old EPROM system is still supported though it will diminish. You may find that the prices of experimentors' 8051 boards will start dropping as they attempt to clear their inventory prior to designing and selling new FLASH models.

ISP FLASH is much easier and has none of the irritating delays we have had to endure for years. It takes just seconds to download a new version of code into a microprocessor and the PHILIPS version I use, is as simple as a RS-232 cable connection and some in-circuit switches.

It might be worth waiting to spend some money for the better FLASH units; not all are created equally. Personally I wouldn't want the bulky printer cable or an IIC interface for reasons I want expand upon.

Depending upon your application, Philips does have a little programming card that they sell which has all the IO taken to header connector pins. You could use that to experiment with. I'll find the price and specification on that board and post it later.

To put this in perspective: Two years ago I bought an Eprom eraser for $50 and a simple 8051 burner for about $250 to $450 with a 40pinDIP and 44pinPLCC adapter. I used them for a proof of concept model and then switched totally to ISP FLASH PLCC. We haven't touched the burners equipment since. (don't ask to buy them)

ISP Flash is wonderful because us old-timers are used to the days when version upgrades could take 30 to 45 minuters. Due to the long delays, in circuit emulaters were more productive back then. In my opinion, that has changed radically with the speeds of FLASH. We don't touch emulators around here anymore.

-Jay C. Box