http://www.piclist.com/techref/io/stepper/linistep/index.htm
Is the Linisteppe Stepper Motor controller a good design.

I am just learning about MicroControllers and PCB boards. I have recently purchased the PICKit 2 to learn programming.

My goal is to learn how to design a stepper motor project. I am looking for a good model to follow in terms of programming, PCB board design, etc.

 

It's a nice controller, look at the link "how it works" on the web site it will guide on what motors to use

 

It's interesting. I haven't had time to analyze it completely.

The real question is, what kind of project are you contemplating?

Do you really need that much of a driver?

You can do a lot with smaller "pancake" type motors like a PF35T-48L4 and ULN2803A's.
http://www.jameco.com/webapp/wcs/st...toreId=10001&catalogId=10001&productId=171601
http://www.jameco.com/webapp/wcs/st...storeId=10001&catalogId=10001&productId=34315

Decent and cheap for learning and small projects.

However, if you're going to build a CNC mill or the like, you'll need something more heavy-duty like the Linistep.

 

I am going to use this as my guide for now.
I think I do need that much motor. I want to build something that will do some pick and place.

 

In that case, it would be a good choice.
A pick & place machine is pretty ambitious for a 1st stepper project. I'd be interested in hearing about your progress.

 

It is ambitious, but sometimes it is easier to go where your heart drives you.

I think if I can get a look at the big picture then break it down in chunks. Take one chunk and learn about it.

I don't care if I buy a kit -- as long as I understand each part.

 

Well, just so you know - those boards are really designed to be driven using software on a PC and interfaced via a parallel port (think LPT1: ) but you could probably drive it using a PIC. Like I say, I haven't researched it that much.

Many computers are now being sold without either RS232 or LPT1; instead they're using 100baseT and USB. However, you can always get a multifunction card and plug it in a vacant PCI slot - if you have one available.