Книга: Advanced PIC Microcontroller Projects in C

5.2.2 Device Programmers

5.2.2 Device Programmers

After the program is written and translated into executable code, the resulting HEX file is loaded to the target microcontroller’s program memory with the help of a device programmer. The type of device programmer depends on the type of microcontroller to be programmed. For example, some device programmers can only program PIC16 series, some can program both PIC16 and PIC18 series, while some are designed to program other microcontroller models (e.g., the Intel 8051 series).

Some microcontroller development kits include on-board device programmers, so the microcontroller chip does not need to be removed and inserted into a separate programming device. This section describes some of the popular device programmers used to program PIC18 series of microcontrollers.

The USB programmer, manufactured by Forest Electronics (see Figure 5.12), can be used to program most PIC microcontrollers with up to 40 pins, including the PIC18 series. The device is connected to the USB port of a PC and takes its power from this port.

Figure 5.12: Forest Electronics USB programmer

The Mach X programmer (Figure 5.13), manufactured by Custom Computer Services Inc., can program microcontrollers of the PIC12, PIC14, PIC16, and PIC18 series ranging from 8 to 40 pins. It can also read the program inside a microcontroller and then generate a HEX file. In-circuit debugging is also supported by this programmer.

Figure 5.13: Mach X programmer

The Melabs U2 device programmer (see Figure 5.14), manufactured by microEngineering Labs Inc., can be used to program most PIC microcontroller chips having from 8 to 40 pins. The device is USB-based and receives its power from the USB port of a PC.

Figure 5.14: Melabs U2 programmer

The EasyProg PIC is a low-cost programmer (Figure 5.15) used with microcontrollers of the PIC16 and PIC18 series having up to 40 pins. It connects to a PC via a 9-pin serial cable.

Figure 5.15: EasyProg programmer

The PIC Prog Plus is another low-cost programmer (Figure 5.16) that can be used to program most PIC microcontrollers. The device is powered from an external 12V DC supply.

Figure 5.16: PIC Prog Plus programmer

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