Interessted in embedded systems; what to buy?

Hi everyone,

I've got a completely and utterly newbie question for you all, which I hope hasn't been asked a thousand times already :) I've read the FAQ of this NG, but the last time it was updated was in 1997 (at least, that's the most recent version I could find) and I think a lot of new (better?) options are available now.

Well, onto my question then. I have never done anything with an embedded system or microcontroller, apart from Lego Mindstorm's RCX (which I believe has an Hitachi R8/300 controller). I am very interested in learning and playing around with microcontrollers though and have some projects in mind which I would like to experiment with.
The last couple of weeks I've been reading webpages and this NG trying to decide what to buy to get started, but I really can't decide. What's absolutely essential to me is that it has everything I need to program it, preferrably in assembly and C (although Java sounds fun too, didn't now it was available for embedded systems), ethernet connectivity (or the option of adding this) and lots of info and free or low-cost tools for it on the web.

What I've encountered so far that looks interesting:

- The TINI microcontroller from Dallas Semiconductor/Maxim:
http://www.maxim-ic.com/quick_view2.cfm/qv_pk/4983
And specifically the DS80C400-KIT package, because of it's (as far as I can tell) complete contents to get started with when all you have is a PC, it's integrated ethernet port and the price of $109.

- The PICkit 2 Debug Express from Microchip:
http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=2519&param=en023805
Because of the low cost (only $39.39), but I don't believe it has ethernet capabilities.

What I have in mind to build:
- Expand a (or several) smokedetector(s) so they have networking capabilities so I can be alerted by email/SMS/whatever there's a fire at my house. :)
- A simple, networked alarm system for my home.
- My ultimate goal: an integrated home automation system, with wireless controls. It would be great for example to have networking via the powerlines for connecting the sensors/actuators to a central microcontroller and controlling everything through PDA's with WiFi.
(Haha, but I think I'd best start with the simple smoke detector :) )

I don't know if it's important to mention that I'm from the Netherlands, but if it's not, at least it gives my an excuses for any language-related errors I might've made :)

My apologies for the long post this has become, but I hope it gives anyone willing to answer me the info (s)he needs to do so.

Thanks in advance!
Tim.
.

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