I've also just started learning hardware development in my spare time. It's a very different challenge than software, and I'm already having a ton of fun with

I've also just started learning hardware development in my spare time. It's a very different challenge than software, and I'm already having a ton of fun with it. To get started, I'd recommend taking a look at this tutorial: http://www.newbiehack.com/MicrocontrollerTutorial.aspx http://www.newbiehack.com/MicrocontrollerTutorial.aspx I also work with a guy who has been hacking hardware since the vacuum tube days, and has built his own computer literally from the ground up. He's an amazing resource, so I got really lucky. As for barriers, I got started for less than $60. I bought an MCU, breadboard, programmer, iron, some LEDs and other components and started messing around. I haven't put together a PCB yet, because I want to make sure I've got everything right. Like the article says, the real world is unforgiving. I don't want to dump $50 on having a board etched and then find out I messed up the design.