FAQ for PIC Programmer

Programmer, In-Circuit Debugger, PIC Start-Up Kit, Memory Interface...

FAQ for PIC Programmer

Postby ober » Fri Apr 17, 2009 11:15 am

1. What is PIC Programmer? Or sometime called Burner, Or even Downloader?
A PIC Programmer is a device that download/burn hex code into PIC Microcontroller, no matter it is fresh or used. Nowadays, there are many type of PIC Programmer in the market, some is getting obsolete such as those using parallel port or serial port. Now most programmer is USB Plug and Play, it could also be integrated into IDE for ease of downloading program after compilation.

2. What is the difference between Programmer and Bootloader?
Programmer may load program (hex file) directly into a PIC Microcontroller, no matter it is fresh new PIC or not.
While Bootloader is a method which use minimum component (serial - UART, IIC, SPI or USB) to load hex file. However, different with programmer, if bootloader is used, the target PIC must have firmware (preloaded) to accept hex code from serial communication and further perform a self-write. Thus, in other words, a fresh new PIC cannot be programmed using bootloader method, it must 1st be programmed with bootloader firmware. Furthermore, the bootloader must be protected from corrupt.

3. Is UIC00A same with PICKIT2 from Microchip?
UIC00A is not fully compatible with PICkit2 from Microchip. PICkit2 has many advance features such as setting Vdd level (3.3V or 5V), Vpp before Vdd, and etc. UIC00A require the target to be 5V operation before loading program. The Vdd level cannot be configured. UIC00A low cost solution to student and hobbyist.

4. What is the difference between UIC00A and UP00B (V2009)?
UIC00A does not have ZIF socket for user to programmer a fresh PDIP PIC MCU (14, 18,20,28 and 40). Basically UP00B is better that UIC00A as it has what UIC00A has, the IDC socket (ICSP) and extra hardware to ease user to load program. For UIC00A case, user is require to connect the PIC board with a 2x5 header, do some soldering for connection (ICSP pin) before it can load program.

5. Can UIC00A and UP00B (V2009) program dsPIC or PIC24 (16-bit MCU)? Or even PIC32?
Yes, as long as:
a. It is supported by PICkit 2
b. Operate in 5V
c. Does not require special program method (Vpp first before Vdd)
d. Support ICSP (UP00B only support 8 bit PIC MCU through ZIF socket)
User is require to ensure this before loading program to particular PIC to avoid unnecessary damage and lost.

6. What is ICSP?
Ober Choo
Cytron Technologies Sdn Bhd
www.cytron.com.my
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