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NEW PRODUCT NEWS—edited by Harv Weiner

In-Circuit Debugger

The MPLAB-ICD is a low-cost version of the MPLAB in-circuit debugger. It uses the in-circuit debugging capability of the PIC16F87X and Microchipıs in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) protocol to provide a cost-effective, in-circuit flash programming and debugging from the GUI of the MPLAB integrated development environment (IDE).

A designer can develop and debug source code by watching variables, setting break points, and single-stepping. Running the tool at full speed enables testing hardware in real-time.

The in-circuit debugger consists of a single interface board that connects to a COM port and the target board that hosts the MCUs. When instructed by MPLAB-IDE, the ICD module programs and issues debug commands to the target PIC16F87X using ICSP protocol.

A modular jack can be designed into the target board to support direct connection to the ICD module or a DIP socket on a target application can support direct connection to the ICD using an optional header board.

Additional features include the PlC16F87X program download, in-circuit run-time debugging, real-time code execution, one hardware break point, and single stepping. Watch variables, 3 to 5-V operating range, 32 kHz to 20 MHz operation, and PC communication at speeds up to 57,600 bps are featured. The MPLAB-ICD includes Microchipıs MPLAB-IDE editor assembler, linker, simulator, project manager, and source-level symbolic debug.

The MPLAB-lCD costs $99.

Microchip Technology Inc.
(480) 786-7200
Fax: (480) 899-9210
www.microchip.com

02-01

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