[XCSSA] hardware project recommendations (alarm system, microcontroller)

[xcssa@xcssa.org]

Hey folks,

I want to create a computer-based alarm system (physical IDS hehe) and
was looking for suggestions.  I could use GNU Phantom Security, but
it's very limited, and involves a lot of kluging with respect to using
more serial lines for input than was ever really intended.

I have about 10 pairs going to sensors, I believe most if not all are NC.

I want a clean, elegant solution, not a hack.  In other words, if I
expand it to 20 pairs, I don't want to have to re-architect.  (Most
outlandish and impractical sensor idea yet; a gravimeter.  Involves
levitating a superconducting doo-dad, in all three dimensions using a
feedback loop, and measuring PPB-level changes in gravity that pulls
the object - you may be able to suppress many things but probably not
your gravity).

I would like inputs that latch open, but would be willing to settle for polling.

I know assembler and am considering something like an M68HC11 to
control the system.
However, I also have a peverse desire to learn FORTH.  Under no
circumstances will I write code in any language with the word BASIC in
it.

And it all has to be open-source, including the programmer.

I am considering RS-232 as a com protocol; I could do USB but I've
heard the driver support is somewhat flaky and the box in there now
predates USB.

I am thinking of using screwblocks as connectors for the input
pairs... I assume I can find a reasonably good part at
Mouser/Digi-Key.

TIA
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