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PICkit

The PICkit is a family of low-cost in-circuit debuggers and programmers developed by , Inc., designed primarily for programming, debugging, and testing Microchip's , dsPIC, AVR, , and other and digital signal controller (DSC) families. These USB-powered tools integrate seamlessly with Microchip's X () to enable developers to load , set breakpoints, monitor variables, and perform real-time debugging without removing the from the target circuit. Introduced in the mid-2000s, the PICkit series evolved from the PICkit 1 Flash Starter Kit, a basic programmer for 8- and 14-pin devices released around 2004, to more advanced iterations offering expanded device support and enhanced features. The PICkit 2, launched circa 2006, introduced broader compatibility with Microchip's families and an intuitive for both programming and limited . Successors like the PICkit 3 (circa 2009) added full in-circuit capabilities for PIC and dsPIC devices at an affordable price point, while the PICkit 4 (February 2018) extended support to AVR, , and CEC devices with significantly faster programming speeds (up to 5 times faster than PICkit 3) and improved power measurement tools. The latest models, including the PICkit 5 (late 2023) with wireless connectivity and portable "Programmer-to-Go" functionality for standalone operation using a microSDHC card, and the ultra-low-cost PICkit Basic (March 2025) with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity and CMSIS-DAP compliance, support nearly all Microchip devices for prototyping and production. Key features across the PICkit lineup include support for In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP), voltage monitoring, and firmware updates via the , making them essential for systems in applications ranging from to industrial automation. While earlier versions like PICkit 1 and 2 are archived and not recommended for new designs due to limited support, the PICkit 3 was phased out for new device additions as of June 2019 and fully discontinued in X v6.25 (April 2024), with the modern PICkit 4, 5, and remaining actively maintained. These tools emphasize accessibility, with prices starting under $30 for the model, democratizing for hobbyists, educators, and professionals.

Introduction

Overview

The PICkit is a family of USB-based in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) tools developed by , designed primarily for programming and debugging PIC®, dsPIC®, AVR®, , and other related Microchip (MCU) and digital signal controller (DSC) devices. These tools enable developers to load firmware directly onto target devices without removing them from the circuit board, facilitating efficient in-system updates and testing. By leveraging ICSP protocols, PICkit devices use minimal pins—typically two I/O lines and a reset—for with the target MCU. At their core, PICkit tools support key functions such as in-circuit programming of , real-time with breakpoints and watch variables, voltage measurement and monitoring on the target board, and basic interfaces like UART or through integrated logic capabilities. These features are integrated with Microchip's ® X for seamless workflow, allowing users to compile, program, and debug code in a unified environment. The tools also include protective mechanisms, such as over-voltage and short-circuit detection, to safeguard both the programmer and the target hardware during operation. PICkit hardware is characterized by its compact , drawing directly from the USB for portability, and featuring a standard 6-pin ICSP header for straightforward connection to development boards or custom circuits. This design emphasizes affordability and ease of use, with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity ensuring quick data transfer for programming tasks. The PICkit series caters to a broad audience, including hobbyists prototyping personal projects, educators teaching systems in academic settings, and developers building applications with 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit Microchip MCUs. Its low-cost structure makes it an accessible for experimentation while providing robust performance for production-level development. Over time, the family has evolved to accommodate expanding device ecosystems, with later versions enhancing speed and compatibility.

History

The series was introduced by in 2003 as an affordable in-circuit programmer and debugger for , addressing the need for low-cost tools amid the rising popularity of the family in applications. This launch marked a strategic shift toward accessible development hardware, enabling hobbyists, educators, and engineers to prototype without expensive equipment. The inaugural PICkit 1 debuted in March 2003 primarily as a demonstration board and basic USB programmer targeted at 8- and 14-pin Flash-based devices, supporting simple programming and evaluation tasks. In 2005, Microchip released the PICkit 2, which expanded capabilities to a broader range of families while introducing open-source to foster contributions and custom modifications. This openness, with source code made available starting in May 2005, encouraged third-party enhancements and solidified the tool's role in grassroots development. The series evolved further with the PICkit 3 in January 2009, enhancing voltage handling and debugging features for more reliable operation across diverse target environments. Subsequent iterations reflected Microchip's transition from demo-oriented tools to professional-grade solutions, with the PICkit 4 launched in February 2018 to include support and faster programming speeds for complex . The latest milestone came in May 2023 with the PICkit 5, integrating modern interfaces like and for wireless programming and improved portability. In March 2025, Microchip introduced the ultra-low-cost PICkit Basic, providing high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, CMSIS-DAP compliance, and "Programmer-to-Go" standalone functionality for nearly all Microchip devices. In February 2025, with the release of X v6.25, Microchip discontinued software support for PICkit 1 through 3, positioning the PICkit 4, 5, and Basic as the current recommended tools for ongoing development needs.

Versions

PICkit 1

The PICkit 1, introduced in as Microchip Technology's inaugural low-cost , was priced at US$36 and targeted entry-level users experimenting with 8-bit Flash microcontrollers. This starter combined programming functionality with an integrated demo board to facilitate quick setup and basic prototyping without additional hardware. The design emphasized affordability and simplicity, using a minimal component layout powered via USB for direct PC connectivity. The hardware featured an onboard demo board populated with a for 8- or 14-pin devices, such as the , along with eight LEDs for visual output, a switch (SW1) for input triggering, and a (RP1) to simulate analog signals in experiments. Programming was handled by a PIC16C745 USB that managed communication and generated the necessary 12-13V VPP signal via a PWM-based for In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP). The kit included a preprogrammed demo application that blinked the LEDs in response to switch presses or potentiometer adjustments, allowing users to verify functionality immediately upon connection. Capabilities were restricted to programming select low-end PIC devices from the Baseline Flash family, including the PIC12F629/675 and PIC16F630/676, using ICSP for in-circuit updates without removing the chip. It integrated with the MPLAB for code loading but lacked any standalone debugging features, relying on the IDE for verification and lacking hardware breakpoints or trace capabilities. The open-sourcing of PICkit designs began with its successor, the PICkit 2. Key limitations included its tight integration with the demo board, which prevented easy adaptation for external circuits or broader prototyping, and support confined to early PIC16 Baseline devices without coverage for enhanced PIC18 families. Additionally, it offered no adjustable voltage output, fixing at 5V from USB and limiting compatibility to devices operating within that range, which restricted its use for higher-voltage applications. These constraints positioned the PICkit 1 primarily as an educational tool rather than a versatile production programmer.

PICkit 2

The PICkit 2, released in May 2005, represented a significant advancement over its predecessor by introducing a standalone / unit powered via USB and based on the . This design allowed for greater flexibility in development setups, featuring a 6-pin In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) connector for direct connection to target boards without requiring an integrated demo board. The hardware supports target devices operating within a voltage range of 2.0-5.5 V, enabling programming and debugging of a broad array of low-power applications while drawing power from the host PC's USB port. Key capabilities of the PICkit 2 include support for programming and debugging devices from the PIC10, PIC12/16, PIC18, PIC24, dsPIC30, and PIC33 families, covering most -based Microchip microcontrollers and serial EEPROMs except for PIC32 variants. With the update to version 2.61 in , it extended memory programming capacity to up to 4 MB of , facilitating work with larger codebases and enhanced device support such as low-voltage programming for applicable devices below 4.5 V using row erase processes. The unit integrates additional tools like a 500 kHz, three-channel for signal monitoring and stimulus, as well as a UART supporting baud rates from 150 to 38,400 for testing. These built-in serial tools extend utility beyond PIC-specific applications, allowing general-purpose digital probing and communication without extra hardware. In 2008, Microchip released the PICkit 2 schematics and , promoting involvement and enabling custom modifications. This open-source availability spurred enhancements, such as software adaptations like PK2AVRISP, which allow the PICkit 2 to function as an AVR In-System Programmer (ISP) for microcontrollers without alterations. Such community-driven features underscored the device's versatility, making it a staple for hobbyists and professionals in systems development.

PICkit 3

The PICkit 3, released in January 2009, represented a significant upgrade in Microchip Technology's lineup of in-circuit debuggers and programmers, featuring the PIC24FJ64GA004 as its internal 16-bit microcontroller processor. This processor enabled enhanced USB 2.0 interface capabilities and improved overall performance compared to its predecessor. Building on the open-source foundation of the PICkit 2, the PICkit 3 maintained a compact, similar form factor while introducing key hardware refinements, including support for target voltages ranging from 2.0 V to 5.5 V, which allowed for more reliable operation with low-power microcontrollers. In terms of capabilities, the PICkit 3 supports programming and debugging of a wide range of Microchip devices, including the PIC10, PIC12, PIC16, PIC18, PIC24, dsPIC30, and dsPIC33 families, via the In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) interface. It offers faster programming speeds than the PICkit 2, along with features like real-time execution monitoring, hardware breakpoints, and verification of program memory, configuration bits, and EEPROM data. Unlike some later models, it lacks built-in tools such as a logic analyzer or UART terminal, focusing instead on core ICSP functionality. Reliability enhancements include an over-voltage and short-circuit monitor, as well as diagnostic LEDs, which addressed stability issues reported in earlier versions and improved fault detection during operation. A distinctive aspect of the PICkit 3 is its broader operating voltage range, which facilitates compatibility with emerging low-power MCUs that operate below traditional 3.3 V thresholds, enabling developers to test and program devices in real-world, power-constrained environments without additional level shifters. Firmware for the device remained updatable through Microchip's tools until the discontinuation of support in MPLAB X IDE version 6.25 (March 2025), allowing users to maintain compatibility with evolving software environments despite the model's eventual obsolescence for new designs in 2019.

PICkit 4

The PICkit 4 in-circuit debugger and programmer was released by on February 27, 2018, as a successor to the PICkit 3 with enhanced performance and broader protocol support. It connects to the host computer via a high-speed USB 2.0 interface, enabling efficient data transfer at up to 480 Mbps without requiring external power. The device uses an 8-pin single in-line header to support key protocols such as In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP), 4-wire , and , while also accommodating 2-wire and Serial Wire Debug (SWD) for versatile target connections. It operates with target logic levels from 1.2 V to 5.5 V, ensuring compatibility with both 5 V and 3.3 V systems commonly used in embedded designs. The PICkit 4 excels in programming and debugging Microchip's 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit and dsPIC microcontroller families, with debug execution speeds up to four times faster than the PICkit 3, driven by its 300 MHz ATSAME70Q21B ARM Cortex-M7 microcontroller. This performance boost reduces development time for complex applications, while the device's can be updated directly through the X to incorporate support for emerging device families without hardware modifications. These capabilities position the PICkit 4 as an efficient tool for in-circuit programming of flash-based devices, matching the target's clock speed for optimal throughput. A standout feature of the PICkit 4 is its deep integration with the (version 4.15 and later), which facilitates real-time variable watching, breakpoints, and step-by-step execution for streamlined development and troubleshooting. It extends support beyond PIC devices to include microcontrollers via the SWD interface, allowing of SAM series devices in a unified workflow. With Microchip's discontinuation of PICkit 3 support in version 6.25 (released March 2025), the PICkit 4 remains a vital wired solution for ongoing projects.

PICkit 5

The PICkit 5, released by in May 2023, represents the latest iteration in the company's line of in-circuit debuggers and programmers. It introduces modern connectivity options, including USB Type-C for high-speed wired communication and (version 5.0) for wireless operation, enabling and programming without a direct cable connection in supported setups. The device is powered exclusively via USB, eliminating the need for an external , and can provide up to 150 to the target circuit. In terms of hardware interfaces, the PICkit 5 supports In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) natively through its 8-pin single in-line header, while and Serial Wire Debug (SWD) are accessible via an optional adapter board that includes a 10-pin header for broader compatibility. It also accommodates AVR-specific protocols such as UPDI, PDI, TPI, and debugWIRE. The PICkit 5 is designed for programming and debugging a wide range of Microchip devices, including and dsPIC microcontrollers/ controllers, (with support for the XMEGA series), and Arm-based devices. Powered by a 300 MHz 32-bit running a , it ensures rapid device switching without firmware download delays. Key unique features include wireless debugging over , which facilitates mobile and remote development scenarios, such as field programming or untethered testing. The PICkit 5 maintains with the PICkit 4's pinout, allowing seamless integration into existing workflows while expanding support beyond PIC-focused designs to include AVR and families. It requires X IDE version 6.10 or later for full functionality, with compatibility extending to Windows, macOS, and environments.

PICkit Basic

The PICkit Basic, released by on March 5, 2025, is an ultra-low-cost in-circuit and priced at $29.99, targeting hobbyists, students, and entry-level developers. It connects via high-speed USB 2.0 and uses an 8-pin single in-line header for In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP), supporting , dsPIC, AVR, , and CEC devices, including 32-bit . The device is powered by a 300 MHz E70 ARM Cortex-M7 and is CMSIS-DAP compliant, enabling compatibility with multiple IDEs beyond X. Key features include Programmer-to-Go functionality for standalone programming without a PC, voltage monitoring from 1.2 V to 5.5 V, and up to 100 mA target . It integrates with version 6.25 or later for debugging and programming, supporting +, macOS, and . Unlike higher-end models, it lacks wireless connectivity and advanced interfaces like or SWD without adapters, focusing on essential low-cost prototyping and production programming. Firmware updates are available through the IDE, ensuring ongoing support for Microchip's device families as of November 2025.

Software Support

Official Microchip Software

The official Microchip software ecosystem for PICkit hardware primarily revolves around the , a free, cross-platform tool designed for editing , compiling projects, programming microcontrollers, and debugging applications using PICkit debuggers. Released initially in version 1.00 in 2011, MPLAB X IDE has evolved through numerous updates, with the latest stable release being version 6.25 as of mid-2025, providing ongoing support for PICkit 4 and PICkit 5 hardware. MPLAB X IDE integrates seamlessly with PICkit devices for in-circuit programming and debugging, supporting features such as real-time execution monitoring, breakpoint setting, and variable watching during debug sessions. It also facilitates firmware updates for PICkit hardware directly within the interface and maintains an up-to-date device database for compatibility with Microchip's extensive microcontroller lineup. Full compatibility is provided for PICkit 4 (from MPLAB X IDE v4.15 onward) and PICkit 5 (from v6.10 onward), while PICkit 3 support is limited to version 6.20, with end-of-support announced in 2025 starting from v6.25. In contrast, PICkit 1 and PICkit 2 have limited support in MPLAB X IDE only for older devices originally supported in MPLAB IDE versions, with no new device support added since around 2012. Complementing the IDE, the MPLAB Integrated Programming Environment (IPE) serves as a standalone application optimized for production programming tasks, such as batch operations and hex file loading, without requiring the full IDE overhead. MPLAB IPE supports current PICkit models including 4, 5, and Basic, with limited support for PICkit 3, for high-volume manufacturing workflows, including memory verification and secure programming options, and is compatible with the same device database updates as MPLAB X IDE. The PICkit Basic, released in March 2025, is fully supported by MPLAB X IDE v6.20 and later, and MPLAB IPE, with CMSIS-DAP compliance enabling integration with third-party IDEs like IAR Embedded Workbench.

Third-Party and Legacy Software

The legacy software for earlier PICkit models includes the standalone PICkit 2 Programmer application, released by Microchip in March 2009 as version 2.61, which provides an open-source interface for programming and debugging without requiring the full IDE. This tool, along with its made available the same year, supports and operating systems but remains unmaintained, limiting compatibility with newer PIC devices introduced after 2009. Similarly, the PICkit 3 Programmer software, released in 2012, offers comparable standalone functionality for the PICkit 3 hardware, focusing on in-circuit programming and basic debugging for supported Flash-based PIC and dsPIC devices, though it also lacks updates for modern microcontrollers. The PICkit Serial Analyzer, a discontinued graphical user interface tool leveraging the PICkit 2 hardware, enables logic analysis and serial protocol communication such as , , UART, and , with its last firmware update (version 0305) and revision occurring in 2009, though initial development dates to 2007. This software facilitates PC-to-device serial interactions via USB but has not received maintenance since its discontinuation, restricting its use to legacy protocols and hardware configurations documented in Microchip's 2006-2008 user's guides. Community-developed tools for older PICkits primarily consist of firmware modifications, such as files that enhance the PICkit 2's Programmer-To-Go feature by expanding external memory capacity up to 256 KB, allowing standalone programming of larger files without a PC; these enhancements, contributed by third-party developers like Au Group Electronics, build on Microchip's open-source released in but do not provide comprehensive alternatives. Such modifications enable basic extensions like increased memory for field programming but require manual flashing and are not officially supported. These legacy and community tools face significant limitations, including incompatibility with and later versions without compatibility mode workarounds or .NET Framework 2.0 installations, and they offer no support for PICkit 4 or 5 hardware or their associated features. As a successor, MPLAB X IDE has integrated and superseded these standalone applications for current development workflows.

Clones and Alternatives

PICkit 3.5

The PICkit 3.5 is an unofficial clone of Microchip's PICkit 3 in-circuit programmer and , developed by third-party manufacturers and enthusiasts starting around 2010. Unlike the official PICkit 3, it was not produced or endorsed by Microchip, and all variants are considered third-party adaptations aimed at providing cost-effective alternatives for programming and PIC . Hardware modifications in the PICkit 3.5 typically involve enhancements to the base PICkit 3 () design, including added components for improved functionality and reliability. Common upgrades include a secondary chip, such as the FM25F04, to enable self-recovery in case of corruption, reducing the risk of bricking during updates. Power management is also altered, with some models substituting the original FDC6420C for a TPS2041BDBV power switch to better handle target regulation, while maintaining support for voltages up to 6V as in the original design. These clones often employ a replicated PIC24F-series , though variants may use alternative chips like the PIC12F1572 for cost savings, potentially affecting performance consistency. In terms of capabilities, the PICkit 3.5 retains full In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) compatibility with a wide range of PIC devices, including 8-bit, 16-bit (PIC24F/dsPIC), and 32-bit (PIC32) families, while claiming enhancements like faster programming speeds and more stable offline operation compared to standard PICkit 3 s. User reports and vendor descriptions highlight smoother sessions and the ability to assign unique serial numbers for using multiple units simultaneously in development environments. However, quantitative improvements, such as specific speed gains, vary by clone quality and are not universally verified. Despite these purported advantages, the PICkit 3.5 exhibits notable drawbacks, including potential reliability concerns due to inadequate against over-voltage on ICSP pins, which can components like power switches. Its target remains limited, often struggling with higher current demands, and updates can be unreliable on certain clones. Microchip provides no official support, leading to occasional compatibility issues with newer X IDE versions or specific devices, and users may encounter detection errors or reduced functionality on non-Windows platforms.

PICKitPlus

PICKitPlus is a application released in 2018 by a UK-based team of developers, aimed at revitalizing PICkit 2 and PICkit 3 programmers by supporting both genuine Microchip hardware and third-party clones. It serves as a comprehensive replacement for outdated Microchip tools, enabling continued use of these programmers with modern workflows. The software continues to receive updates, with version 7.61.1.80 released in January 2025, ensuring compatibility with emerging PIC devices. The software includes an updated device database that incorporates support for newer 8-bit , such as the PIC16F18xx series and PIC18F2xKxx family, allowing programming of devices beyond the scope of legacy Microchip software. It offers broad compatibility with Windows operating systems from XP through 11, facilitating standalone programming and verification without requiring integration with . Additional features encompass command-line interfaces for automation, USB communication at 12 Mbits/s, and compatibility with tools like Great Cow BASIC. Core capabilities focus on practical enhancements, including firmware management for updating and verifying firmware, voltage verification across a 2.0V to 6.0V range to ensure safe operation, and full EEPROM read/write support for devices. PICKitPlus integrates seamlessly with PICkit firmware version 2.61 and higher to unlock addressing, expanding the effective range for larger code and data segments. As of 2025, it supports via the PKCMD-LX command-line application and , with command-line compatibility on macOS through compatible tools. Under its licensing model, PICKitPlus requires purchase for access, including one year of support and encouraged community contributions via the repository for database updates, ensuring ongoing support for emerging PIC devices. This approach fosters long-term accessibility for hobbyists and engineers reliant on older hardware investments.

Other Clones

Numerous low-cost clones of the PICkit 2 and PICkit 3 have been available on platforms like and since around 2010, often priced under US$10 and utilizing unbranded or generic chips to replicate core functionality. These variants typically focus on basic In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) support for , providing essential programming and limited capabilities without the advanced features of official Microchip hardware. One specialized example is the PURPIC, a wearable clone of the PICkit 2 introduced around , designed for portable use in low-volume programming scenarios. This compact device, approximately 25% smaller than the original PICkit 2, incorporates a Li-ion battery charger, DC-DC boost circuit for 5V output over 500mA, and a "Programmer-to-Go" button for standalone operation, making it suitable for wrist-worn or pogo-pin-based applications. Some clones extend functionality beyond PIC devices, incorporating AVR ISP interfaces for programming AVR microcontrollers alongside basic PIC support. Open-source designs for PICkit 2 clones, such as those hosted on , enable hobbyists to fabricate custom versions with full compatibility to the original . Reliability among these clones varies significantly, with cheaper models prone to bugs such as inaccurate voltage readings, insufficient VPP generation (e.g., ~6.1V instead of 13V), and mismatches that lead to device recognition failures or programming errors. For professional applications, genuine Microchip hardware is recommended to avoid such issues and ensure consistent performance.

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