[Asterisk-Users] What do I need to get started?

[jonr]

Ok,

I have found Asterisk and I want to start learning it. I am new to the 
language and the concepts and am having a hard time grasping them and 
understanding what is what.

I want to set up a * box that connects to my telephone line so I can 
make calls using VOIP. Do I have to sign up for a service to do this or 
can I buy a card that goes into my * box that allows me to use VOIP over 
my telephone line. If so, what card do I need? I am in the USA if that 
makes a difference. I don't need anything elaborate, it's just for 
learning and playing with.

I am sorry if this is a basic question but when I try to read the docs I 
get confused because I don't understand the technology and when someone 
is talking about POTS lines with sip or whatever my mind glazes over.

Can someone give me direction on how to go about getting started, what 
hardware and where I should read for the setup?

Thanks for any help,

Jon