I'm currently taking a class that teaches assembly and c programming for microcontrollers. We are using pre-made boards and loading our code onto them. I'd like to make my own setup so that I can experiment.

I have acquired a P89LPC925 and a LTC1385.

My questions are basic but go as following:

1)As a beginner should I use these parts or buy something different?

2)Is a crystal necessary? From what I can tell most chips have an internal clock and the crystal is for timing and serial port communication.

3)Can anyone provide some basic schematics for the proper way to wire these. Preferably, with a same 20 pin controller. I've been reading datasheets but I'm not always sure what the pins are since they'll have multiple functions.

4)What are some other hardware that is needed? I know of a power regulator, but what is needed for this.

I've tried to do some research but I thought this forum might help.

Thanks,
Tim