1a) Get a copy of the book "From Chips to
Systems"
by Rodnay Zaks.
I have to agree with this wholeheartedly. It's a great book!
You might also want to look into the DIY6502 (google for it). It's a
really neat SBC based on the 6502. You can build it for under $100 and
it's a great way to learn since it's so very simple.
g.