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Schaer+ Programmer using PIC12F629 microcontroller

Description Schaer is a generic programmer circuit capable of uploading and downloading firmware to/from several electronic devices like microcontrollers...

Circuit diagram Download files
Tags: #pic12f629#programmer#schaer
Ibrar Ayyub By Ibrar Ayyub
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At a glance

CategoryProgrammers & ICSP
PIC modelPIC12F629
IncludesCircuit diagram · Download files
Reading time~2 min

Summary of Schaer+ Programmer using PIC12F629 microcontroller

The Schaer programmer is a low-cost, generic circuit designed to upload and download firmware to microcontrollers and EEPROMs. Originally conceived for the University of Aveiro's robotic soccer team due to high costs of existing tools, it utilizes parallel port control signals and requires a 15V power supply. Although the author eventually abandoned this project to build an ICD2 clone, the design remains a simple, affordable solution using standard voltage regulators.

Parts used in the Schaer Programmer:

  • Parallel port
  • PIC being programmed
  • Power supply (at least 15V)
  • 78XX regulators
  • Prototype white board
  • PCB
  • PIC12F629 microcontroller

Description

Schaer is a generic programmer circuit capable of uploading and downloading firmware to/from several electronic devices like microcontrollers and eeproms. This and other programmers came to my attention when I was working in CAMBADA, the robotic soccer team from the University of Aveiro, and since all other programmers available there were too expensive for me to buy or build, I decided to build one that was simple and cheap!

schaer whiteboard

This programmer has given me lots of trouble with high capacity PICs and I decided to abandon the project and build a ICD2 clone for MPLAB. What rests here are just the remains of the project.

Design and Implementation

I can't remember where I found the first schematic on the web but after testing it in a white board I decided it was best to try a definitive solution on a PCB. The circuit is very straightforward: it gets its control signals from the parallel port and sends it to the PIC being programmed. It needs one power supply of at least 15V and generates its 13V and 5V with 78XX regulators.

Schematic

Schematic schaer

The schematic is a copy of the original schematic found on the web. At the top of this page is the first implementation on a prototype white board.

 

For more detail: Schaer+ Programmer using PIC12F629 microcontroller

  • What is the primary function of the Schaer programmer?
    It is capable of uploading and downloading firmware to electronic devices like microcontrollers and EEPROMs.
  • How does the circuit get its control signals?
    The circuit gets its control signals from the parallel port.
  • What power supply voltage is required for operation?
    It needs one power supply of at least 15V.
  • How are the 13V and 5V generated?
    These voltages are generated with 78XX regulators.
  • Why did the author decide to build this specific programmer?
    Existing programmers were too expensive to buy or build for the CAMBADA robotic soccer team.
  • What happened to the initial implementation on the white board?
    The author decided it was best to try a definitive solution on a PCB after testing on the white board.
  • Did the author continue developing this specific project?
    No, the author decided to abandon the project due to trouble with high capacity PICs.
  • Which microcontroller is mentioned for more detail in the article?
    The article references the PIC12F629 microcontroller for further details.
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Ibrar Ayyub

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...