d. MCP2200 programming: Is it possible?

There are some reports that MCP2200 is in fact a Microchip preprogrammed version of PIC18F14K50. I did a small test to prove or disprove these claims and to test high voltage programming adapter on K-series PIC18. The pin arrangement on MCP2200 is in fact the same as on PIC18F14K50. The only differences are the pin descriptions in MCP2200 datasheet. If you assume PIC18F14K50 pin assignments, everything else is exactly the same. MCP2200 is locked for low voltage ICSP program/verify mode, but you can still use high voltage ICSP programming mode. Reading chip ID word gives chip ID (23B hex) and version (8). Further study of the configuration word proofs that it is a version of PIC18F14K50 low pin count microcontroller. However, it is not possible to read MCP2200 program code, because it is code protected. But you can write your own code and program it into MCP2200 EEPROM. According to the PIC18F14K50 programming specifications, the best option is to use 4 V on MCP2200 power supply pin (V_dd) during program/verify process, so there is no need for 3.3 V to 5 V signal converter, and a maximum of 8.5 V for high voltage programming on the Vpp pin.

MORE INFORMATION:

- High programming voltage adapter for Super speed microcontroller programmer

- PROGRAMMING GUIDE

Click on the photo to enlarge it.