[DiverDude]

Well, I won't kid you -the whole microcontroller/electronics thing is a hobby unto itself. The real perk though is that whatever you can create with it can be applied to other hobbies or just about anything.

There is a lot of information out there on various applications and ways of doing things like controlling a 1200W element. It would be wise to consult various forums so you don't reinvent the wheel.

In the end though, you need to make a commitment to learn how to program a micro (Arduino or other). Once you've commited to a specific micro, you'll need to invest a little cash in some development tools a few microcontrollers to experiment with etc. You'll also need a soldering iron and a multimeter to be able to do anything useful.

In short, don't look to a microcontroller just for a solution to this specific project but rather as a skill you will acquire that will allow you to make all KINDS of things for your smoker, monitor things in your aquariums -you name it. That said, it is not a quick and simple thing and will take time, much like a reef tank doesn't instantly thrive.