Microcontrollers (MC) - is a versatile microprocessor-based devices. Modern combine MK CPU core, a memory device for storing and executing program data receiving device input and output signals and forming a plurality of auxiliary units. Work with MK impossible without programming them.

The program for the controller - is a set of computer codes, which should be recorded in the controller using a programmer.

In PIC-a programming is used in-circuit programming (ICP) - read and write memory chips and microcontrollers directly to the device, without having to install a panel programming.  

The advantages of this method:

• No need resoldering chips (sometimes multiple). This is especially important when debugging and repair devices - reduces the risk of damage and rebukes work.  
• You do not need an expensive panel.  
• Work with chips that store information in RAM. When they are de-energized and desoldering data will be destroyed.

The programmer microcontroller = Adapter + control program

Almost everything you need for programming, including high voltage sources are within the most MC. Conclusions to connect with the programmer are represented by lines sync one or two lines for the transmission of command codes, addresses, and data and one line to signal that sends the controller in programming mode.

Microcontrollers RІS can be divided into groups according to the number of conclusions.

• The smallest - is 8 or even 6-pin IC Series PIC12F. They are used when enough 3-6 external signals.
• MK in the housing 18 (20) conclusions (PIC16F84, PIC16F628, etc.). They can have a seven segment LED digital plug and pins 7-9 remains for the buttons, different sensors and external signals.
• MC with 28 and 40-pin (for example, PIC16F87x). Such MK have more extensive program and data memory.

To communicate with the computer programmers (PC) using standard PC ports such as COM, LPT and USB. The task of the programmer is to output signals from the ports to form the desired pulses changing program voltage levels of these ports, and "read" the response signals MC.

To program using the RІS programmer is used USB-port. Of its output signal is easy to get not only the voltage of +5 V power supply for the adapter itself and the programmable chip, but + 12 to switch to programming microcontrollers.

You do not need an additional external power supply, which usually requires the LPT adapter.

To work with the programmer is installed on the computer shell program IC-Prog. The program allows a large number of controllers and adapters of various types.

When programming, special attention should be paid to the right side of the IC-Prog. There's an option "Configuration" should pay attention to the tab "Security code". Must be set: «CP OFF». In this case, the microcontroller code protection is not set, and it can be changed and read thousands of times. If you have a different option, the controller is programmed only once, but it is no longer possible to consider, though perhaps erase and rewrite the new firmware,

For the PIC-controllers can use the development environment from the manufacturer Microchip MPLAB. It provides everything you need for writing code, debugging and downloading into the microcontroller using a PIC programmer.