PICKit 3 Pinout: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction to PICKit 3

The PICkit 3 is a versatile tool that enables developers to program and debug a wide range of Microchip’s 8-bit PIC and 16-bit dsPIC microcontrollers. It offers a user-friendly interface, fast programming speeds, and advanced debugging capabilities. The PICkit 3 connects to a host computer via a USB interface and communicates with the target device through an In-Circuit Serial Programming™ (ICSP™) interface.

PICKit 3 Pinout Overview

The PICkit 3 features a 6-pin ICSP connector that is used to interface with the target device. The pinout of the ICSP connector is as follows:

Let’s explore each pin in more detail:

1. VPP (Programming Voltage)

The VPP pin provides the programming voltage required for programming and erasing the target device’s flash memory. The voltage level on this pin varies depending on the target device and the selected programming mode. The PICkit 3 can generate programming voltages up to 14V.

2. VDD (Target Device Power Supply)

The VDD pin supplies power to the target device during programming and debugging. The PICkit 3 can provide a selectable voltage of 3.3V or 5V to the target device through this pin. It is important to ensure that the voltage level matches the requirements of the target device to avoid damage.

3. GND (Ground)

The GND pin provides a common ground reference between the PICkit 3 and the target device. It is essential to ensure a proper ground connection to prevent any communication or programming issues.

4. PGD (Programming Data)

The PGD pin, also known as ICSPDAT, is used for bidirectional serial data communication between the PICkit 3 and the target device during programming and debugging. It carries the programming data and debug information.

5. PGC (Programming Clock)

The PGC pin, also known as ICSPCLK, provides the clock signal for synchronizing the serial data communication between the PICkit 3 and the target device. The clock frequency is typically in the range of a few megahertz.

6. LVP (Low Voltage Programming)

The LVP pin is an optional pin used for low voltage programming on certain PIC microcontrollers. When enabled, it allows programming the target device at a lower voltage level, typically around 3.3V. Not all PIC microcontrollers support low voltage programming.

Connecting the PICKit 3 to a Target Device

To connect the PICkit 3 to a target device, follow these steps:

1. Ensure that the target device is properly powered off.
2. Connect the PICkit 3 to the host computer using a USB cable.
3. Identify the ICSP header on the target device’s PCB.
4. Align the PICkit 3’s ICSP connector with the target device’s ICSP header, ensuring that the pin assignments match.
5. Carefully plug in the PICkit 3’s ICSP connector to the target device’s ICSP header.
6. Power on the target device.

It is crucial to double-check the pin assignments and orientation before making the connection to prevent any damage to the PICkit 3 or the target device.

PICKit 3 Pinout Diagram

Here is a visual representation of the PICkit 3 pinout:

        +---------+
  VPP   | 1     6 |   LVP
  VDD   | 2     5 |   PGC
  GND   | 3     4 |   PGD
        +---------+

Programming and Debugging with PICKit 3

Once the PICkit 3 is connected to the target device, you can use Microchip’s MPLAB® X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to program and debug your application. The PICkit 3 supports a wide range of programming modes, including:

• ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming)
• JTAG (Joint Test Action Group)
• SWD (Serial Wire Debug)
• SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface)
• UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter)

The PICkit 3 also offers advanced debugging features, such as:

• Real-time debugging
• Breakpoints
• Watchpoints
• Single-stepping
• Register and memory view

With these features, you can efficiently debug your application and identify any issues during the development process.

Troubleshooting Common PICKit 3 Issues

If you encounter any issues while using the PICKit 3, here are some troubleshooting tips:

1. Verify the Pin Connections: Double-check that the PICkit 3’s ICSP connector is properly aligned with the target device’s ICSP header and that all pins are securely connected.

2. Check the Power Supply: Ensure that the target device is powered on and receiving the correct voltage level through the VDD pin. Verify that the PICkit 3 is configured to provide the appropriate voltage level.

3. Update the PICkit 3 Firmware: Make sure you have the latest firmware version installed on your PICkit 3. Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues and affect the programming and debugging process.

4. Check the Target Device Configuration: Verify that the target device is properly configured for programming and debugging. Ensure that the necessary configuration bits are set correctly in the MPLAB X IDE.

5. Try a Different USB Port: If you experience communication issues between the PICkit 3 and the host computer, try connecting the PICkit 3 to a different USB port on your computer.

If the issue persists after trying these troubleshooting steps, consult the PICkit 3 user guide or seek assistance from the Microchip support team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can the PICkit 3 program and debug all PIC microcontrollers?
   The PICkit 3 supports a wide range of 8-bit PIC and 16-bit dsPIC microcontrollers. However, it may not be compatible with every PIC device. Refer to the PICkit 3 user guide or the Microchip website for a list of supported devices.

2. Is the PICkit 3 compatible with third-party IDEs?
   While the PICkit 3 is primarily designed to work with Microchip’s MPLAB X IDE, it may be compatible with certain third-party IDEs that support Microchip’s debugging protocol. Check the documentation of the specific IDE for PICkit 3 compatibility.

3. Can I use the PICkit 3 for production programming?
   Yes, the PICkit 3 can be used for production programming. It offers fast programming speeds and supports various programming interfaces, making it suitable for small to medium-scale production programming.

4. What is the maximum voltage that the PICkit 3 can generate on the VPP pin?
   The PICkit 3 can generate programming voltages up to 14V on the VPP pin. However, the actual voltage level depends on the requirements of the target device and the selected programming mode.

5. Is the PICkit 3 backward compatible with the PICkit 2?
   While the PICkit 3 offers enhanced features and performance compared to the PICkit 2, it is generally backward compatible with PICkit 2 target devices. However, some older devices may require specific configuration settings or firmware updates to work with the PICkit 3.

Conclusion

Understanding the PICkit 3 pinout is crucial for effectively using this powerful programming and debugging tool. By familiarizing yourself with the pin assignments, connectivity, and usage of the PICkit 3, you can streamline your development process and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

Remember to always refer to the PICkit 3 user guide and the Microchip website for the most up-to-date information and device compatibility. With its extensive features and support for a wide range of PIC microcontrollers, the PICkit 3 is an invaluable tool for embedded system developers.

Happy programming and debugging with your PICkit 3!