PIC microcontroller programming software

A microcontroller is a complete small computer on a single chip, combining a processor, memory and input-output peripherals so it can run a fixed program to control a device. The PIC family is a long-established line of microcontrollers widely used in hobby projects, instruments and embedded products. Developing for these chips needs a chain of software tools that turn a program written by a human into the binary image stored in the chip's program memory.

At the start of the chain is the source code, written either in assembly language, which corresponds directly to the chip's instructions, or in a higher-level language such as C. An assembler or a C compiler translates this into machine code, and a linker combines the pieces into a final program file, commonly in the Intel HEX format. Before committing to hardware, a simulator or debugger can run the program on the PC, stepping through instructions and showing the state of registers and memory, which speeds up finding logic errors.

The final stage transfers the program into the chip. A device programmer, driven by software on the PC, writes the HEX file into the microcontroller's flash or EEPROM memory; many PIC devices support in-circuit serial programming, allowing the chip to be programmed while soldered in place. Integrated development environments bundle the editor, compiler, simulator and programmer interface together, providing a single workflow from writing code to running it on the target.

Frequently asked questions

What is a PIC microcontroller?

It is a single-chip computer combining a processor, memory and peripherals, from a widely used family designed to run a fixed program that controls a device.

What software is needed to program a PIC?

Typically an assembler or C compiler to build the code, a simulator or debugger to test it, and software driving a device programmer to write the result into the chip.

What is in-circuit serial programming?

It is a method that lets many PIC devices be programmed while still soldered into the circuit, using a few pins to load the program rather than removing the chip.