MicroChip PIC16F873 question

[FreeKenBiker]

Hello All,

I have a project that calls for a PIC16F873 uC. The hex code and C source code is provided. I have done a bit of C for regular PC apps, I have not done any PIC programming except a couple beginner experiments with a BasicStamp Kit, so I am not sure of what I need. I would be interested in getting a MicroChip StarterKit but it looks as if it is limited to 20 pin chips.

Since the PIC16F873 is a 'mature' product, MicroChip recommends a PIC16F883 for new designs. Looking at the pins, the layout is different. I was wondering if the HEX code also would be different.

So, can anyone make some recommendations concerning the appropriate programmer for the chip the design calls for and would that programmer limit me if I wanted to later develop for USB enabled chips. Or is there a way to have the chip flashed by someone else, and then get a programmer for chips with more capabilities.

Ken

[bodgy]

I'll have to check out the 883 specs before answering your question fully.

If the 883 has the same registers and they are in the same position, then it would work - code for a 16F872,3,6,7 so long as the code would physically fit then the code would work. However the 883 may have some advancements.

Forgot to say if the pinouts are different then it depends on what your code uses. If things like PWM or ADC etc then this might be a problem. What is it you're building?

As far as programmers go, there are a number out there and it depends on how much you can afford or wish to spend.

The Microchip ones will be compatible with all their range - though the ICD2 has abit of a problem with the latest version of MPLAB which will be solved when Microchip bring out v10 of MPLAB, there is also realIce from Microchip, but is expensive.

you then have offerings from Olimex, from Forest Electronics, Sparkfun and if you want a near professional one there is a small range from EMBED Inc in the US and Mikroelectronica.

Most of the ones mentioned will always be upgradable in some way as far as new Pics coming out. The cheaper ones or ones that you can make yourself are less likely to be upgradable.

I'd suggest getting one that covers the 16,18 and 24F series as that'll allow you to grow if you want to.

http://www.microchip.com
http://www.olimex.com
http://www.fored.co.uk
http://www.sparkfun.com
http://www.embedinc.com
http://www.mikroe.com

Colin

[bodgy]

I've now had a chance to look at the data sheet for the 883.

If you're code doesn't use any of the peripheral devices or timers then you might be lucky. However, I would strongly urge making the required alterations in the C code - for the 1 bit port E and recompiling.


Colin