For a system, like the one we 've been discussing all these days, I have a different opinion. I believe it should be like most of the microcomputer systems, no matter if they are mp3 players, game consoles, small embeddeds, SBCs , etc., etc. or full-blown computers. That is a central CPU with its RAM and ROM (on or off chip, doesn't matter) plus the peripherals. In the case of the PC-52 project one and only one 8052 (for the OS and I/O, mass storage, LCD and similar. It could be an 8-port Cygnal) and as a "chipset" a CPLD/FPGA (that could handle also I/O, mass storage, VGA or anything else that we would want). Also a chip for the sound.

As for sound I am very fond of using an mp3 decoder with built-in ADC/DAC and amplifier. Did anyone see the VLSI chips that I mentioned in one of my posts? Also Micronas has something similar with MP3 and ADPCM decoders plus 40-voice MIDI syntesizer, but without built-in ADC/DAC (so you lose the encoding/recording capability) and amplifier.

Well of course, all depeneds on what would be agreed for the sound. If it is something simple then the 8052 itself could generate the sound, but wouldn't be nice to have extended features for the sound and not only for the video?

George

P.S. Yes, it is like reinventing the wheel, but as Craig and some other fellows mentioned, it is for the fun while learning plus you may find in the near future a market for it... I wish I had the time to actively be involved in this project, if it would be decided that it is a REAL project and not a project that will stay in the papers, but unfortunately my studies as well as my small experience don't leave me to be a part of it...