Regarding Platforms:

Nobody in their right mind develops 16bit applications anymore. The development tools are 10 times better for 32bit and build much more robust code. The tools for laying out screens etc. could be a VERY significant development effort. The serial port would have litte to do with the choice of the platform.

Try to hire anyone that will even work on 16bit. The best people want to work on the most popular platforms.

Come on, I've seen new 300mhz K6 machines, 32meg memory, 6gig drives, 56k modems and monitor for $600.00. I've sold 386's with 8meg that could run Win95 for $100.00 no monitor (2-3 years ago !!!).

Regarding Pronto software:

If new units in the future come with software for "free" then they can just put it up on the web and distribute it free !!!

What better way to promote the unit. The software will only be usable with Pronto's anyway.