S-AVR
S-AVR stands for "Simple AVR". It is a very simple, cheap and easy-to-make modular microcontroller experimentation board built on veroboard. It is based on the Atmel ATmega162 MCU. It uses components which are readily available from online component retailers like Farnell and Rapid Electronics, and will only cost a few pounds to make.
You can download a complete open-source SDK based on GCC from the WinAVR site. Similar toolkits available for *nix and Mac.
You will need a device to enable you to upload the code you write to the micro. Whilst you can do this with a home-made device connected to the serial or parallel port of your PC, you can buy an excellent USB programmer kit from AdaFruit for $22. Shipping to the UK is $6.40. According to the UK Customs website, if you keep the value of the goods you order below £18 you will not have to pay any import duty or VAT.
S-AVR is pronounced "savour". It is also the name of a PLANET in the PLEIADES.
