Hi James,

it looks like you need no fast mathematics (1 second update time), so the 8051 can do the job very easy.
Absolutely no need for a coproz or high speed core.

Also the 8051 is the micro with the biggest code efficiency. It generates the most compact code in assembler and also on using the Keil C compiler.
If you can use the Keil, you should do it.

For easy development I suggest to use any derivate with Flash, which can be programmed in system.
E.g. the Atmel T89C51RD2 or Philips P89C668 and many others can do it.


Peter