The potential for using PIC chips in school control projects

Computers housed in a single IC package (programmable micro-controllers) have been manufactured since the eighties and are used in a variety of products including: remote controllers for TVs and car locks, washing machine and microwave programmers and communication devices. One popular range of programmable micro-controllers called PIC chips have been used by the Nottingham Trent University to explore their potential for Design and Technology education within secondary schools. This paper discusses the rationale and development of electronic control education within the UK and outlines software and hardware developments using PIC chips, which could bring the use of computers embedded in individual projects within the reach of all schools.