I have done many projects using PICs and 8051(2)s to take one or more serial streams, manipulate them, and display some info on a simple LCD or VFD. In fact, that is the number one reason that I am interested in the empeg. My concept of "embedded system" topped out with PIC and 805x, serial based devices. The concept of being able to include ethernet and hard drives into my small embedded designs is so awesome that I can hardly stand it. It's kind of cool that it also makes a great car stereo.

Anyway, if you give a few more details, maybe I can be of just a little more help.

Later,

Steve