Lots of PIC programmers
will want to get their hands
on the MPLAB ICD 3 from
Microchip (see the figure).
It uses the faster USB 2.0
interface to improve chip
programming times by a factor
of 15. The higher-speed
interface also moves data to
and from memory quicker,
providing a snappier debugging
interface. This makes
operations like single stepping
faster.
The MPLAB integrated development environment (IDE)
has been enhanced to take example of new debugging features,
including support of up to 1000 software breakpoints. The incircuit
debugger (ICD) comes with a PIC10F test-bed module.
This latest version of the ICD is powered by the host’s USB
connection, eliminating the old power brick. It can supply a target
board with up to 100 mA. Inside, a dsPIC powers the ICD
3. The MPLAB ICD 3 is available for $219.99. The MPLAB
IDE is a free download.
Micorchip