PICkit 3 Compatible Microcontroller Programmer Kit
The PICkit 3 Programmer is a USB development tool designed for programming and debugging supported Microchip PIC and dsPIC microcontrollers through the In-Circuit Serial Programming interface.
This compatible version is suitable for electronic repair, firmware development, microcontroller testing, educational projects and programming supported chips either on a target circuit or through the included ZIF adapter board.
Main Features
- Programs supported PIC and dsPIC microcontrollers
- Supports In-Circuit Serial Programming
- Provides programming and debugging functions
- USB connection to a Windows computer
- Status LEDs for power, activity and operating status
- Push button for supported Programmer-To-Go operations
- Compatible with selected legacy MPLAB software
- Includes a ZIF socket adapter for supported DIP chips
- Suitable for electronics development and repair
- Compact and portable design
Supported Microcontroller Families
Depending on the selected software version, firmware and device-support database, the programmer may support selected devices from families such as:
- PIC10
- PIC12
- PIC16
- PIC18
- PIC24
- dsPIC30
- dsPIC33
- Selected PIC32 devices
Not every device in these families is supported. Always verify the exact microcontroller reference in the Microchip device-support list before purchase.
Programming Functions
Available functions may include:
- Device identification
- Blank check
- Reading program memory
- Writing program memory
- Reading and writing EEPROM
- Device verification
- Erasing supported devices
- Configuration-bit programming
- In-circuit debugging
- Importing and programming HEX files
- Programmer-To-Go operation for supported devices
Programmer-To-Go availability depends on the programmer firmware, selected microcontroller and software version.
ICSP Programming
The programmer connects to supported target circuits through the standard ICSP signals:
- VPP/MCLR
- VDD
- VSS/GND
- PGD/Data
- PGC/Clock
- Auxiliary connection where required
Always confirm the target device’s programming pinout before connection. Incorrect wiring or excessive voltage may damage the microcontroller or programmer.
ZIF Programming Adapter
The supplied adapter board includes a Zero Insertion Force socket for convenient programming of supported DIP-package microcontrollers outside the target circuit.
The adapter does not make every DIP chip automatically compatible. The correct socket position, jumpers and pin mapping must be selected according to the exact device.
Software Compatibility
PICkit 3 is a legacy programming and debugging platform. It can be used with compatible earlier versions of:
- MPLAB X IDE
- MPLAB Integrated Programming Environment
- PICkit 3 standalone programming software
MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB IPE version 6.20 are the final official versions that support PICkit 3. Version 6.25 and newer do not provide PICkit 3 support.
Software is not included unless specifically stated in the selected package.
Target Power Information
Some supported circuits can be powered by the programmer when the corresponding software option is enabled. However, the available current is limited and may not be sufficient for a complete electronic board.
Use an external regulated supply when the target circuit requires more current, and make sure that the programmer and target board share a common ground.
Never enable programmer-supplied power when an external target supply is already connected unless the circuit and software configuration specifically allow it.
Important Notes
- This is a PICkit 3-compatible aftermarket programmer, not an original Microchip product.
- It is intended for development, testing and repair work—not high-volume production programming.
- Device compatibility depends on the exact MCU, firmware and software version.
- New microcontrollers added after PICkit 3 reached end of support may not be compatible.
- Verify the target voltage, ICSP wiring and chip reference before programming.
- Create a backup before erasing or writing any readable device.
Package Includes
- 1 × PICkit 3-compatible programmer/debugger
- 1 × USB connection cable
- 1 × ICSP ribbon cable
- 1 × ZIF socket programming adapter
Package contents may vary slightly according to the selected option.
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