Programming and Customizing the PIC Microcomputer

Programmingand Customizing the PIC Microcomputer

By Myke Predko

The step-by-step process belowoutlines how to get started:

• The PIC Microcontroller: Highly popular beginner-friendly chips include the PIC16F84A, PIC16F628A, and PIC16F877A.
• Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Download Microchip\'s official MPLAB X IDE.
• Hardware Programmer/Debugger: Devices like the PICkit 4 or an older PICkit 3 (often found in kits with adapter boards) allow your computer to transfer code to the microcontroller.

2. Choosing Your Language

PIC microcontrollers supportseveral languages:

• C: The industry standard. You will need a C compiler like the MPLAB XC8. It is highly efficient for complex math and larger programs.
• Assembly: Gives you the tightest control over hardware and memory.
• BASIC: Third-party compilers (like PICBASIC PRO) are often preferred by hobbyists for faster, human-readable coding.

3. The Development Workflow

1. Create a Project: Open MPLAB X, create a new standalone project, and select your specific PIC microcontroller model (e.g., PIC16F628A).
2. Write the Code: Write the logic to control the chip\'s pins (e.g., turning an LED on or off) and initialize system parameters like the clock oscillator speed.
3. Compile / Build: Use the compiler (like XC8) to check your code for syntax errors and translate it into a .hex file.
4. Program the Chip: Connect your PICkit programmer to the PIC’s ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) pins and use the programmer\'s utility software to flash the .hex file onto the microcontroller.