It's amazing what you can accomplish with this well-proven microcontroller and its simple PBASIC 1 language.  All vital components (processor, clock source, memory, power regulator) are provided on the BS1's tiny PCB; just connect power and go!  The BASIC Stamp 1 (BS1-IC) is an ideal fit for applications that don't require the speed, I/O, and memory of the BASIC Stamp 2 series of microcontrollers.  Projects needing small, permanent soldering area for circuitry may benefit from combining the BS1-IC with the BASIC Stamp 1 Carrier Board or simply using the BASIC Stamp 1 Project Board.  For lower-cost OEM solutions, the processor (PBASIC1 interpreter) and other components are available for integration into your PCB. However, due to the fact that modules cost less than $20 in large quantities, it's a strong candidate for high volume applications.

For customers that require a more powerful microcontroller, we recommend the BASIC Stamp 2 series controllers. If true multi-processing is what is needed for your project or applications, then the Propeller microcontroller is going to be the best option. Here is a comparison chart between the various Basic Stamps available through us.

Features:

Processor Speed: 4 MHz
Program Execution Speed: ~2,000 instructions/sec.
RAM Size: 16 Bytes (2 I/O, 14 Variable)
EEPROM (Program) Size: 256 Bytes ~80 instructions
Number of I/O Pins:  8
Current Draw @ 5 VDC:  1mA Run, 25 μA Sleep
Source/Sink Current per I/O:  20 mA / 25 mA
Source/Sink Current per unti:  40 mA / 50 mA
PBASIC Commands = 32
Package: 14-pin SIP
Industrial-Rated
 

Key Specifications:

Power Requirements: 5.5 to 15 VDC (Vin), or 5 VDC (Vdd)
Communication: Serial for programming
Dimensions: 1.41 x 0.40 x 0.15 in (35.8 x 10.2 x 3.81 mm)
Operating Temperature: -40 to +185 °F (-40 to +85 °C)

Note:  BASIC Stamp 1 programming requires a BASIC Stamp 1 Serial Adapter

Downloads & Resources:
BASIC Stamp 1 Hardware Support
BASIC Stamp Documentation
BASIC Stamp Software
BASIC Stamp Module Comparison (.pdf)
BASIC Stamp FAQ (.pdf)
BASIC Stamp 1 App Notes V1.9 (.pdf)
BASIC Stamp 1 Schematic Rev.D (.pdf)