Considerations in setting up supporting facilities for microprocessor applications work and teaching

Abstract

It is possible to identify various levels of sophistication at which microprocessor/microcomputer applications can take place, and for which supporting facilities are needed. It can also be argued that effective teaching in the microprocessor area must be on a largely 'hands-on' basis, and that application and teaching equipment needs are therefore substantially the same. The paper identifies the levels and suggests facilities in both hardware and software which are needed to support work at each level. The paper goes on to discuss particular facilities which have been developed to meet these needs. It will be seen that support at lower levels can be readily provided at modest cost and can form part of higher level support if and when it is needed, so that the complete facilities can be realised in an effective but economical manner. Typical costs at each level of support are given as a guide.