Summary of Original PICKIT-2 microcontroller programmer
The author designed a custom, single-sided PICkit 2 programmer compatible with Microchip MPLAB IDE. By modifying the original schematic to remove unused memory chips and connectors, they created a compact PCB using mostly SMD components. The device successfully programmed a PIC16F628A microcontroller without issues, offering a reliable alternative to existing versions.
Parts used in the Custom PICkit 2 Programmer:
- MCP6001U
- FDC6420C
- PIC18F2550 microcontroller
- SS14 diodes (replacing BAT54 and ZHCS1000)
- SMD parts
- Jumpers
These days I was thinking about a better PIC programmer that can work with MicrochipMPLAB IDE software so that I can write my own programs or edit someone else’s programs. I found that there are numerous versions of the famous Microchip PICkit 2 on the web.
Some of them are using the original schematic published by Microchip and some are lite versions – with different parts or simplified schematics. None of them satisfied my requirements. So I got the original schematic, removed the memory chips and the input ICSP connector (which I didn’t plan to use anyway) and made a new single sided PCB. I used mostly SMD parts.
Schematic
I found out that I can get all parts for the original schematic from local stores, and only two –MCP6001U and FDC6420C – I had to order from Farnel. I also decided to replace two Schottky diodes BAT54 and ZHCS1000 with SS14 because of more convenient package. I programmed the PIC18F2550 microcontroller with my Chinese programmer. Here is the schematic which I used:
In the end the schematic is not exactly like the original one but it is close enough I used the same notifications of the parts like in the original schematic.
PCB
It is one sided and has only five jumpers. The size is comparatively small – 83mm x 52mm.
I don’t want to brag, but I think I made the best one sided PCB for PICkit 2 programmer. It also works without any hiccups. I tested it with an PIC16F628A which I have at hand. It was recognized in both PICkit 2 software and MPLAB IDE.
Here is the picture of the programmer connected to the breadboard with the PIC16F628A on it.
For more detail: Original PICKIT-2 microcontroller programmer
- What software does this custom programmer work with?
It works with Microchip MPLAB IDE software. - How many jumpers are on the PCB?
The PCB has five jumpers. - Can I find all parts for the original schematic at local stores?
No, two specific parts had to be ordered from Farnel. - Which diodes were replaced with SS14?
BAT54 and ZHCS1000 Schottky diodes were replaced. - Does the new PCB use through-hole or surface mount technology?
The design uses mostly SMD parts. - What is the size of the single-sided PCB?
The size is 83mm x 52mm. - Did the author test the programmer with a specific microcontroller?
Yes, it was tested with a PIC16F628A. - Why did the author remove the input ICSP connector?
The author did not plan to use the input ICSP connector.
