Tom: I didn't think that Ready-to-run was your real name. I'm glad you're interested in the Arduino stuff. I've got to say that this platform offers a lot of possibilities for DIY projects related to model railroading.
I've tried in the past to get a handle on the hardware and software for the various microprocessors that have come down the pike. I've got an AVR development board around somewhere but was unable to do much with it. I just couldn't find out what I needed to know even with the Internet.
The Arduino is the first microprocessor platform that has put the pieces together in such a way that it all made sense to me. I'm not an Electrical Engineer by a long shot but have always been interested in electronics since, at a young age, I tried to power a bulb from a flashlight with wires stuck into an AC outlet. Luckily, my father stopped me before I got shocked. He tried to explain to me what I was doing wrong. But I needed to know more.
So I ended up with a Computer Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh. I took a job near Cleveland, OH working on programs for CT scanners. Later I joined my brothers to form a software development company. We struggled with that for about 30 years but I thought that we always put out good work. I have since retired with some health issues. Now I've got the time for hobbies. Too many hobbies!
Anyway, I'm glad that you're spending time with your grandson. That's time well spent. As long as the forum doesn't fall apart, you can get back to this anytime. Good luck with that truck!
-- Leo
