How can I connect an 18 pin microcontroller to my computer and where do I get the equipment?

Question

Also, I'm searching for a microcontroller with 18 pins (both sides) similar to the PIC16f628 that can be programmed with BASIC by dumping a .hex file into it. What are very similar models that can be bought at stores like fry's, radio shack, and other electronic store and not just online.

Answer 1

You can connect a uC(micro Controller) to the PC via just about any I/O port. Parallel, Serial, USB, IR

For individual IC uC you typically use a development board and special software for programming ( Serial port or USB typical).

The development board provides a basic amount of circuitry to allow not only communications to/rom the IC but adds hardware like switches and LEDs ect connected to the chip. This allows the rapid development of software without having to construct a circuit. (Later a dedicated circuit can be created to finalize development on.)

uC suppliers like Microchip and Atmel sell their versions for prices which range between 80 and 150 dollars. If you just want to play arround with a uC you can by a sample or demonstrator uC. Atmel makes the BUTTERFLY which is a business card sized circuit complete with an LCD, uC joystick, temp sensor, light sensor for $25. If you go this route I highly recommend purchasing the book listed below on programming the Butterfly in C for $50

TI makes a demo board as well for thier MSP430 which plugs into a USB port.

An excellent online source for parts is Digikey

EDIT:
Programming in BASIC usually requires purchasing a Compilier which is dedicated to a particular brand of uC. Otherwise you will have to use the free assembler programs provided by the manufacturers to program the uC's.

A notable exception is with the BASIC Stamp by Parallax. this comes with a free PBASIC compilier.

I would recommend learning C and programming micro controller apps in C . Other than assembly language, C seems to be the most widely used language for embedded programming of uC's.

Answer 2

Wait until eventually you've a command at programming the little black chips earlier speaking with a operating laptop or computer. i do not comprehend what chips radio shack sells, yet evaluate getting to charm to close Microchip microcontrollers. Microchip 16 sequence microcontrollers are helpful, decrease priced, and could be programmed with effortless (alongside with C and assembler) in case you purchase their compiler. 16 sequence have usarts equipped into them making RS232 communications ordinary. Your computer in simple terms needs a terminal software which frequently comes with residing house windows, jointly with residing house windows xp.

Answer 3

I'm not an electronics expert, but most microcontrollers and other similar devices I've seen are connected to the parallel port in the back.