PIC
We live in an age of wonder... I can buy 32bit MIPS processor boards (aka PIC32) for $49. I am considering using one for my car computer project, but on this page at the moment I am only talking about using a PICKIT2 to control a keyboard for the upcoming MakerFaire.
I am now using a PICKIT 2 purchased directly from Microchip, it is a great deal. For $50 you get a development board, the programmer, and the software.
PICKIT 2 FAQ http://www.voti.nl/pickit2faq/index.html
PICKIT 2 programming button hack http://www.instructables.com/id/PICKIT2-programming-button-mod/
Other PIC Microprocessor Resources
http://www.embeddedrelated.com/ EmbeddedRelated web site, and the mailing list: PIClist
Development tools
I am using MPLABX on Linux Mint (desktop) and Debian (lab). So far I have only installed on Mint.
I only need use MPLABX now, it runs on Linux. I installed it on Mint 14. It shows up in the menus under Programming -> MPLAB IDE. I am using version 1.60 now.
High Level Languages
C language
MPLAB XC: mostly free C compilers http://www.microchip.com/pagehandler/en_us/devtools/mplabxc/ Non-free options offer better optimizations. You get a 60 day eval on PRO level with the free version.
http://www.ccsinfo.com/picc.shtml C compilers starting at just $50.
http://www.fored.co.uk/ Wiz-C
If working with PIC16 or PIC18 see https://sites.google.com/site/rmaalmeida/mplabx-sdcc-toolchain
Basic language
- http://www.melabs.com -- Maker of 'PICBASIC' compiler.
- http://www.BasicMicro.com/ -- "Atom", a mostly Stamp compatible PIC platform. Includes IDE and debugger.
- http://www.crownhill.co.uk/section.php?section=1 Proton Basic
- http://www.picant.com/c2c -- C, C++, and Pascal for the PIC. low cost (< $100)
http://www.xcprod.com/titan/XCSB - optimising structured PIC BASIC compiler
