The new generation 18 pin PICAXE microcontroller now has parallel tasking, touch sensors and more memory/RAM. See the [Info Sheet](http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/docs/picaxe18m2.pdf) for a comparison of features between the 18M2 and the 18M2+ PICAXE is a neat entry-level microcontroller system that is relatively cheap to get started with. The chip is programmed with a simple serial connection and the BASIC development environment is free! PICAXE has some excellent educational applications and support, and is a great entryway into more complicated embedded systems. If you\'re look for a place to start with microcontrollers, PICAXE is a great way to go! **Replaces:**[COM-08309](http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8309) **Documents:** * [Datasheet](http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/docs/picaxe_manual1.pdf) * [Info Sheet](http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/docs/picaxe18m2.pdf) * [What is PICAXE?](http://www.picaxe.com/What-Is-PICAXE)
