Tools are an important part of a project.   For this project, I will be using either very inexpensive or free tools.  Most chip manufacturers have limited capability software tools.  Usually the limitations are either software size restrictions and or optimization options.  This project is definitely simple enough to work within the code space of most microcontrollers without size optimization.  If I need speed optimization, it will be good to show it done manually here on the blog.

Often Manufacturers sell development kits at or near cost to support developing their products.  These are often great tools to start basic design and especially Hello World projects.

Free integrated development environment(IDE)

Free C compiler

Free Assembler

Integrated programming software

integrated debugging software

Free schematic and layout software

Low cost chip programmer

Solderless breadboard

5v, 3v variable power supply

Low cost development kit (dev kit)