@ScottSeidman What type of metal? Stainless steel?

stainless does work pretty well. There will be a large capacitive component of the skin/electrode interface if there is no conductive cream, but for many things this is fine.

@W5VO I can program in C and during a course named Digital Fundamentals I've met several datasheets. I'm almost familiar with the datasheets but actually, it's been mostly theoretical rather than practical. Considering that I have enough knowledge about programming, what else do you suggest me to do to become more familiar with embedded systems?

@Peter get a dev kit, I recommend an STM32 discovery board, cortex m3 or m4, doesn't really matter, download the reference manual for the processor and have a play

the boards are cheap, there are free toolchains for them, make some lights flash, come up with a project and make it

that's the best way to learn in my opinion

Oh, that's a great idea. I think I should have a try. Thank you so much!

@Peter Reading The Art of Electronics might help you. (It's a relatively easy read too.)

@NickAlexeev Thanks Nick. I think books that follow a hands-on approach are best.

I went to a trade show, and two of the major players were giving out cups - one was giving out shot glasses, and the other was giving out espresso mugs. I'm still not sure which way to take it.