For my experiments, I designed a simple pcb with 18F1320 PIC, USB UART, and header for plugging in the RFM12B. It also has an LED and ICSP header. It's an easy way to hook the units up to your laptop, since you get a RS232 debug channel, and the whole thing is powered at 3.3 volts from the USB. Is there any interest in this if I build a few more or turn it into a kit?
You could use one of these connected to your PC to transmit to your robot or whatever has the other end of the link. It fits the hammond 1593K enclosure as well, if you wanted something that looks nice.
The chips are SSOP surface mount packages, but I solder them by hand all the time. Just tack in place, flood all the pins with solder, then wick away the excess.
-chris