bb. PIC18 in-circuit programming/debugging header for PICkit2 and PICkit3
In-circuit programming/debugging headers are simpler than stand-along programming headers. You just have to make the required wire connections to: MCLR, PGD, PGC, Vdd and Vss (GND) pins. The only requirement is that the MCLR pin is connected to Vdd through an at least 1 k resistor. Under normal operation conditions MCLR is set high, but PICkit must be able to set it low to initiate the programming/debugging mode.
You can use PIC18 in-circuit programming/debugging header for PICkit2 and PICkit3 in your custom circuits, Velleman K8055-1 experiment board to PIC18F24J50 adapter circuit and Velleman K8055N-2 experiment board, which also has an SK9 connector for the same purpose.
The programming/debugging header works perfectly, it is very handful for easy PIC18 reprogramming and rapid firmware development and it is also very cheap. You just need a socket and a male ladder connector. The rest are just the wires.
PIC32 in-circuit programming/debugging header is similar, except for different pin (MCLR, PGECx = PGC, PGEDx = PGD, Vdd and GND) locations. Choose any pair of PGECx & PGEDx, where x = {1,2,3,4}. Detailed information on PIC18 and PIC32 microcontrollers is available here.
INSTRUCTIONS TO USE: Place PIC18 in-circuit programming/debugging header between the original microcontroller socket on PCB and the microcontroller chip.
CAUTION: You cannot use PIC18 in-circuit programming/debugging header with Velleman K8055-1 experiment board, unless you modify the board and you connect MCLR pin through a 4,7 k ohms resistor.
Click on the photo to enlarge it.
Placing the header socket between the original socket and the microcontroller chip.
Click on the photo to enlarge it.
Click on the photo to enlarge it.