d. Can I replace PIC18F24J50 with more powerful PIC18F26J50?

PIC18F26J50 does not cost much more than a PIC18F24J50, but it has four times more flash EEPROM memory (64 kB instead of 16 kB). You only need a different *.HEX file that is adapted for PIC18F26J50 and the other is the same! Velleman K8055N board works superb with the more powerful chip. The advantage is that your programing may be four times as long and also more complex. But you must still be careful not to use too much of static RAM data memory. The size of PIC18F26J50 static RAM is exactly the same as in PIC18F24J50.

To use PIC18F26J50 instead of PIC18F24J50 go to the Downloads section and download the appropriate *.HEX file. It is easy! PIC18F24J50 v2.0.hex (for PIC18F24J50) and PIC18F26J50 v2.4.hex (for PIC18F26J50) files also supports Fast and Superspeed microcontroller programmers. You can use them with no modification to the other software.

NOTE: The easiest way to get a microcontroller out of its DIP socket is to use a narrow flat screw driver. Use the screw driver's flat end to press at the chip edges to lift it about a 1 mm out of its socket. Now, keep pushing the screw driver gently into the opening until the chip pops out of its socket.

PIC18F26J50 fits nicely into the PIC18F24J50 socket. Just pull the old chip out and intert the new one. Click on the photo to enlarge it.