[zcrobson]

I know nothing about connecting thermostats but willing to learn to upgrade to digital. I am technically oriented, but have not studied the purposes of the wires. My primary question is what is a good value nonprog, digital, backlit thermostat to replace my analog Janitrol 18-60 with? I like the look and price of the White-Rodgers #700 Electric NonProg Thermostat at $28, but cannot determine if compatible. Right off I see questions with the wiring when comparing old and new. I have a split system heat pump with electric backup, but no emergency heat as I have baseboard heaters.
I have why, G, are, O and W2 connected to same color wires; C has a blue wire and E appears open or no wire connected. The WRogers has W, Rh, B, Rc, blank, G, O, why terminals and they point out a single transformer. I cannot see any transformer on the Janitrol, but may not be necessary with the mercury. Does the red wire go to Rh/Rc? I understand Rh and Rc need to be jumpered and may be jumpered; not sure. Does the blue wire go to B? Any input would be appreciated.
I just bought a line voltage thermostat for one of my baseboard heaters, but not yet connected. It looks much simpler, but may have future questions as I may try to connect two baseboard heaters to one thermostat if within power specs. I bought a Honeywell RLV310 rated at 3k watts at 220V and have Cadet 8' 220V BBHeaters. As I read about line voltage thermostats there were ratings of -1.0 or -.5 degree temperature resolution. Does resolution apply to the WRogers type, because I don't see that spec? Perhaps it is -.5 degrees resolution or better due to being digital.
What say you about the new, automatically, really programmable Nest Labs (Apple) thermostat at $250?
Thanks again and please ask if any questions. Charlie