PIC microcontrollers ( Programmable Interface Controllers), are electronic circuits that can be programmed to carry out a vast range of tasks. They can be programmed to be timers or to control a production line and much more. They are found in most electronic devices such as alarm systems, computer control systems, phones, in fact almost any electronic device.PIC Microcontrollers are relatively cheap and can be bought as pre-built circuits or as kits that can be assembled by the user
You will need a computer to run software, such as MPLAB, allowing you to program a PIC microcontroller circuit. A fairly cheap, low specification computer should run the software with ease. The computer will need a serial port or a USB port. This is used to connect the computer to the microcontroller circuit.
Software such as, MPLAB can be downloaded for free. It can be used to program microcontroller circuits. It allows the programmer to simulate the program, before downloading it to a PIC microcontroller IC (Integrated Circuit). Simulating the program on screen, allows the programmer to correct faults and to change the program. This means that a program can be written quite quickly, with fewer mistakes.
A USB lead connects the computer to the programmable circuit, allowing the transfer of the program to the PIC microcontroller IC.
When the program has been simulated and works, it is downloaded to the PIC microcontroller circuit. The USB lead can be disconnected and the microcontroller circuit can be used independently.
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