OK, a definate Noob to this and I am getting a list together of what I may need to get into burning my own chips.

1 Pocket Programmer 2 -I was informed it can erase EEproms. Correct me If I am wrong.
2 Tunercat, unless you guys use a better editing software.
3 Auto x-ray, to read whats going on in the car.
4 Blank EEproms 2-3 to start.

Anything else? I am doing this on a budget, kind of.

Now let me see if I have a basic understanding for this.
The PP2 will read the chip, ie stock. Creating a bin file that I save. Using tunercat, or the like , I open the bin, and I am able to make changes to the stock settings. Then i save the new bin, put blank eeprom on the pp2, and load the new bin onto the chip. Then the chip is ready?
Is that the jist of it?

 

I personally Would get a Flash N' Burn form Moates.net It is only $85.00

Tuner Cat is a great program but I Would Use TunerPro or TunerPro RT for they are Free, and Supported through TGO. Plus the author Hangs out on the DIY PROM board.
http://tunerpro.markmansur.com/

Yes unless you have a laptop or can get one cheap.

YES and moates.net you can Get them Also

 

You can get a junker laptop, and make an ALDL cable for a whole lot less than what an AutoXray costs, and it'll do a lot more for you.

I'd also suggest you pick up a Moates adapter, and a ZIF socket. Makes swapping chips a lot easier.

 

Ok, now im a lil lost. Explain a ZIF socket, and the purpose of the adapter. Once I have what was listed, what exactly do these items do. A search doesnt turn up posts with that info. I just get the usual convo's about types and other stuff im not familiar with. Also, is there any articles or books explaining in depth on getting started.

As I understand it, my 91 Z has a '730' ECM? I suppose there is a specific model chip. As far as cost, most of this stuff is gonna be birthday gifts, like the programmer, and auto x-ray. Leaving software, and blanks up to me. Is this flash n burn a step forward, or back from the PP2?

I appreciate any patients you guys got. Once I have what I need, and know how it all works together, I pick up real fast.

 

You do have a '730 ECM.

ZIF = zero insertion force. Has a little locking lever, so chip R&R is a cinch.

Moates adapter lets you put a factory memcal in place, with a ZIF... your alternative is to desolder the original EPROM from a GM memcal, and solder a ZIF in its place.

FnB is more compact than the PP2, and costs less. Runs off USB, vs. parallel port for the PP2. Either will get the job done just fine.

Sticky posts on this forum are your best place to start. Also one on the DFI & ECM forum, entitled "PROM/MEMCAL/CALPACK" or some such. No books that I'm aware of.