P928-X PIC Training and Development Course for Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 and 8

For absolute beginners and for beginners with a professional interest:- P928-X PIC Training and Development Course Teaching PIC Assembler and C, PC Visual C# (optional) and EASY USB (optional) (Course updated March 2012) P928-X module can be used as a production programmer Our PIC training and development system is a complete course which introduces PIC microcontrollers to absolute beginners. Update to PIC16F627A In March 2007 we completed a total revision of the course and we changed the focus away from the rather out dated PIC16F84 to the PIC16F627A. Update to PIC16F1827 Three years later in March 2010 technology had again moved forward in leaps and bounds, and a new low cost easy to use microcontroller was just starting to roll off the production line at Microchip. These are part of the new eXtremely Low Power family of PICs. In March 2010 we completed a further update of our training course to use these very latest PICs. The course is now centered around the PIC16F1827. This offers many extra features, four times more memory, is just as easy to use, yet costs a little less than the PIC16F627A. Easy USB extension In March 2012 we released the Easy USB extension of the P928 course. Quick summary of the course The first book starts with a gentle introduction to the essential background material with all the programming in assembly language but because we use simple programming techniques the concepts are easy to understand. The second book introduces the C programming language starting with simple programmes for the PIC16F1827, then showing how these programmes can be run in the PIC16F1936, PIC16F627A and PIC16F84. C programming for 18F PICs is also covered with seven chapters which were added in the summer of 2009. The third book Experimenting with Serial Communication, which is optional, starts with very simple PIC to PC serial experiments, gradually getting more complex, until a full digital storage oscilloscope is created. For the experiment shown in the picture we have wired a phaseshift oscillator on the plugboard using the optional components and we are viewing the waveform using the oscilloscope software which we have created using Visual C#. This is one of the last experiments of the course. All these experiments use the programmer module as the test bed. Click here if you want to know what a microcontroller is.

Our P928-X PIC training and development system consists of our pro spec 12F, 16F and 18F PIC programmer module, a 318 page book introducing PIC assembly language in the simplest possible way, a 304 page book which takes you slowly into the C programming language, an optional 276 page book teaching serial communications, and software comprising a PIC assembler and a C compiler. The programmer module serves two purposes. It is used to write our programmes into the test PIC so that we can test them in the real world, and it is used as a test bed for running the programmes. It is already wired with light emitting diodes, push button switches and an alphanumeric liquid crystal display so that most of the experiments can be performed without needing to wire up the circuits. The P928 version of our programmer module has two 9 pin sockets for RS-232 serial input (one for control and one for experimental use) and a USB connector for experimental use. A USB to RS232 adaptor is supplied with the programmer as standard. The programmer can to be connected directly to COM1 or COM2 on your PC or through the USB to RS232 adaptor to any USB port on your PC.

Experimenting with PIC Microcontrollers (using BSPWA and MPASM) 5th Edition Everyone should start programming PICs using assembly language because this is the only way to fully understand what happens, but there is a general misconception that PIC assembly language is difficult. Imagine trying to teach English grammar to a child before allowing him or her to speak yet that is how most books approach a technical subject. Our first book introduces PIC assembly language programming by jumping straight in with four easy experiments. The first is explained over seven and a half pages assuming no starting knowledge of PICs. The programmes are tested using the simulator then written into the test PIC and run in the real world. Then having gained some practical experience we study the basic principles of PIC programming, learn about the 8 bit timer, how to drive the liquid crystal display, create a real time clock, experiment with the watchdog timer, sleep mode, beeps and music, including a rendition of Beethoven's Fur Elise. Then there are two projects to work through, using a PIC as a sinewave generator and investigating the power taken by domestic appliances. The second project requires us to measure voltages and currents. Previously we needed to change to using a more expensive PIC but an analogue to digital converter is one of the extra features contained in the PIC16F1827. Now we are able to continue using the same PIC. Finally we learn how to adapt the experiments right through the book so the software can be run in the PIC16F627A family, PIC16F84 and PIC18F2321 family. In the space of 24 experiments, two projects and 56 exercises the book works through from absolute beginner to experienced engineer level, covering a comprehensive selection of the most up to date microcontrollers. For most of the experiments we use the Brunning Software assembler BSPWA. But in Chapters 3M and 5M we repeat some of the previous experiments using the official Microchip assembler MPASM. The text used for both assemblers is identical so when we repeat the experiments we simply load in the file we have already created using BSPWA. So we benefit from the simplicity of BSPWA while also learning to use MPASM. This book is wirobound to open flat, 240mm x 170mm, 318 pages.

For most programmes the Brunning Software PIC assembler BSPWA requires no setting up. Start the programme running. Click [Load Template] to create the top six lines. Start typing your programme text. Click [Build] to create the PIC code. Click [Start Simulator] to test the code. Connect the Brunning Software programmer module to your PC and fit a test PIC into one of the ZIF sockets. Click [Write Test PIC] to write the code into the test PIC. Click [Run Test PIC] to start the programme running. For more information about BSPWA 7.1 click here.

Experimenting with PIC C - 5th Edition We start by typing a very simple programme in C which gets the PIC to turn on two LEDs. Then we discover how easy it is to use C to create programme loops, and we experiment with IF statements. We learn how to use C to access the 8 bit and 16 bits timers, we write messages to the LCD, and use the keypad to enter numbers. Then its time for 25 pages of serious study where we read about some of the more complex C techniques. We are not expected to remember this, the idea being to start the process of understanding the deeper aspects of C. As we work through chapters 9 to 14 we use a PIC to generate a siren sound, create a freezer thaw warning device, and use a thermistor connected to a PIC to measure temperature. We use the PIC as a step up switching regulator, and to control the speed of a DC motor with maximum torque still available. Then we study how to use any PIC to switch 240 volt AC supplies using an optoisolated triac driving a high current triac. We study how to use the PIC's USART. We start our experimenting with direct PIC to PIC serial communication without getting into the complications of RS-232. Then we expand this to experiment with PIC to PC communication using true RS-232 levels. Chapters 15 to 21 have been added with the 4th edition published on 1st December 2009. These seven chapters introduce C for 18F PICs. We start with a very simple programme, experiment with the built in timer, write to the LCD and read the keypad. Then we make a direct comparison between 18F assembler and C by experimenting with the complex calculations needed for temperature measurement. We end by using C to write the code for 18F PIC to PC serial communication. This book is wirobound to open flat, 240mm x 170mm, 304 pages.

(Optional) Experimenting with Serial Communication - 3rd edition We start with two very simple programmes to run in a PIC18F2321 to flash the LEDs on the programmer module. We write text to the liquid crystal display. We experiment with simple serial communication by getting the PC to flash the LED on the programmer module, writing the PC programme in assembler. We write a line of text to the LCD, we use the PC keyboard to write to the LCD and we send text back to the PC. Then we learn about Visual C# for programming the PC. We flash the LEDs and write text to the LCD. We experiment with the routines needed to create a storage oscilloscope and gradually create the software. The final audio oscilloscope has dual or single trace, harmonic analysis and sophistcated triggering. To see the full list of contents click here. This book is wirobound to open flat, 240mm x 170mm, 276 pages. Note: In this book we start our study of serial communication using PC asseembler (the PC assembler is included on the CD). This uses DOS based programmes which cannot be run on a Windows 7 PC. If you do not have access to a PC with Windows XP or 98 you will need to skip over chapter 5. We could solve this simply by taking out this stage of learning but many students do have several PC and it is a valuable lesson.

(Optional) Experimenting with Easy USB We use this book to learn to use the Brunning Software Easy USB library to set up serial communication between a USB 18F PIC and a PC. The complex USB library routines are hidden away within a fixed block of code which is stored in the PICs memory. This allows the USB send and receive routines to be used without needing to understand how USB works. Easy USB is a perfect solution for simple and medium complexity project. For complex projects or where the timing is critical it is best to split the action between two or more PICs. In the last chapter of the book we complete the study by learning how to use the library routines to programme a PIC18F2450 as a USB to USART converter. This book is wirobound to open flat, 240mm x 170mm, 120 pages.

Our P928 pro spec 12F, 16F and 18F PIC programmer/experimental module is an advanced design using a 28 pin PIC18F2525 to handle the timing, programming and voltage switching requirements. It has two ZIF sockets and an 8 pin socket which between them allow some 8 pin and 14 pin and most 18, 28 and 40 pin mid and high range PICs to be programmed. The onboard alphanumeric liquid crystal display is used by the control PIC to display system messages and can also be driven by the test PIC. A keypad and audio output socket for use by the test PIC are included on the PCB and the whole assembly is mounted on a base with an 840 socket plugboard stuck to the front section. The plugboard is powered by the switched 5 volt supply and has a current limit setting which will usually prevent damage to ICs when wiring mistakes are made. The assembler, C compiler and programming software is supplied on a CD, along with library files and programme text. The programming cycle starts by writing the code to the PIC with the voltage set to 5 volts and verifying that the PIC is properly programmed. The PIC is then verified at either 2 volts or 3 volts and at 5.5 volts to ensure that it is programmed correctly over its entire operating voltage. Our programmer module connects to the serial port of your PC and all the software runs correctly within Windows XP, NT, 2000, Vista, Win 7 etc. The programmer module also has the ability to operate as an audio oscilloscope. There are two analogue inputs for 0 to 5 volts peak to peak. Our Windows based oscilloscope software is included on the CD. This has single or dual trace and includes waveforma anlysis with a list of harmonic levels. Squarewave and sawtooth test waveforms are included.

Price list:- Our programmer verifies over the full operating voltage of the PIC being written to and so meets the requirements to be classified as a production programmer. It connects to your PCs USB port via the supplied USB adaptor, and our software runs within Windows XP, NT, 2000, Vista etc. Order code P928-X:- P928 PIC programmer/experimental module + Book: Experimenting with PIC Microcontrollers using BSPWA & MPASM + Book: Experimenting with PIC C (5th edition) + PIC Assembler and PIC C compiler software + PIC16F1826, PIC16F1936 and PIC18F2321 test PICs + USB adaptor with PC USB lead.............................................£174.00 Optional book: Experimenting with Serial Communications..........£ 25.00 Optional book: Experimenting with Easy USB (120 pages) +PIC18F2450 test PIC and USB to PC lead...............................£ 18.00 UK postage and insurance.......................................................£ 10.00 (Europe postage and insurance.......£20.00. Rest of world......£34.00) To create your order click: Go to P928 (and PH28) item selection page The module is fitted with a 2.1 mm DC power socket (8 to 18 volts DC) UK orders are supplied with a plugtop power supply. Overseas orders are supplied with a lead to connect one PP3 battery to the DC input (battery is not supplied). The PIC programmer module can be connected directly to COM1 or COM2 on your PC, or it can be connected through the supplied USB adaptor to any USB port on your PC. We also sell PICs if ordered with the PIC training system:- PIC16F1827... 18 pins... 4k x 14... USART+ADC... £1.50 inclusive PIC16F1936... 28 pins... 8k x 14... USART+ADC... £2.00 inclusive PIC18F2321... 28 pins... 4k x 16... USART+ADC... £3.25 inclusive PIC18F2525... 28 pins.. 24k x 16... USART+ADC... £5.70 inclusive

Optional kit of components for Experimenting with PIC C Full set of components for white LEDs and motors tests in chapters 12 and 13, including all wire links and motors wired with connecting leads. Plus sounder and thermistor for chapter 10 (Freezer thaw), and chapter 11 (temperature tests). As listed below:- 2 off PIC16F1826/7 3 off ultra bright white LEDs .....30000 mcd, 20mA, 15 deg 3 off low current red LEDs 1 off 100uH inductor 1 off 4v3 zener diode 2 off FDP6035AL MOSFET 2 off 1A schottky diodes 2 off small DC motors 2 off variable resistors 1 off optoisolated triac 1 off BTA16-600B triac 1 pack resistors 1 pack capacitors 1 off push button switch 1 pack trimmed wire links 1 PP3 battery lead to two pins 1 battery holder 2 x AA 1 battery holder 4 x AA 1 off 100k thermistor 1 off piezo sounder 1 pack of components ..... for phaseshift oscillator Complete kit of parts..............£31.00 Postage UK £1.00, Europe £1.50, Rest £2.50

Some of the experiments in "Experimenting with PIC C" require circuits to be built up on the plugboard. The components for the experiments in chapters 12 and 13 are listed above on the right and are an optional extra. If this optional kit is purchased there is no soldering involved. The links are supplied cut to the correct lengths and the motors are supplied wired with connecting leads. Full point to point wiring instructions are included in the book, and the only tools needed to construct the circuits are a pair of side cutters and a pair of pointed nose pliers. Resistors are individually bagged and the other components are grouped logically so that no previous knowledge of components is needed. As well as learning about PIC programming this is also an excellent way to learn about some complex electronic circuits.

The experiment with the 3 white LEDs creates a light bright enough to be used as a torch. The brightness has to be seen to be believed! The two experiments using the PIC16F1826/7 to control the speed of first one and then two motors are fascinating. This PIC has two comparators built in. We are able to use these to monitor the emf so that the full torque is available even at very low speeds. The theory behind this is fully explained in the book.

Chapter 14 introduces serial data communication using the PICs Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART). It sounds complicated but it is actually very easy to understand. We start with PIC to PIC serial communication. To do these experiments we need two PIC circuits. One PIC is fitted in the programmer module and programmed as the master. The slave circuit can be wired in the attached plugboard but it is better to wire it in a separate plugboard as shown so the two circuits can be moved apart.

When the slave circuit is fully wired its PIC can be programmed while in the circuit by running a programming lead to the 40 pin ZIF socket as shown above.

When both PICs are programmed we connect the two circuits together using a 3 way lead and then start the tests. The master PIC should be fitted in the 40 pin ZIF socket but it was left out of this photograph!

The wiring of the slave circuit with the programming lead fitted.

The same slave circuit with the serial lead fitted.

The next stage of the serial experiments is PC to PIC communication. We start by writing a simple programme to run on your PC which sends data to the Brunning Software programmer module. This is a very simple way to understand the hardware and software needed for PC to PIC serial communication. Then we look into the complications of creating your own circuit to connect a PIC to a PC using true RS-232 levels. When you understand the requirements you will be able to create your own circuits which connect directly to your PC without the need for our programmer module to be in the circuit. When you have done this you can choose to programme your PIC in your circuit (by running a programming lead to the programmer module) or you can unplug your PIC to programme it.

Mid range PICs Programmed Our Windows based assembler BSPWA_16F can programme the 16F PICs listed below using our P928-X programmer module:- 8 pin 18 pin 28 pin 40 pin PIC12F629 PIC16F84 PIC16F870 PIC16F871 PIC12F675 PIC16F84A PIC16f872 PIC16F873 PIC16F874 PIC12F1822 PIC16F627 PIC16F876 PIC16F877 PIC16F628 14 pin PIC16F873A PIC15F874A PIC16F630 PIC16F627A PIC16F876A PIC16F877A PIC16F676 PIC16F628A PIC16F883 PIC16F884 PIC16F1823 PIC16F88 PIC16F886 PIC16F887       PIC16F1826 PIC16F1933 PIC16F1934 PIC16F1827 PIC16F1936 PIC16F1937

18F PICs Programmed Our Windows based assembler BSPWA_18F can programme the 18F PICs listed below using our P928-X programmer module:- 18 pin 28 pin 40 pin PIC18F1230 PIC18F2221 PIC18F4221 PIC18F1330 PIC18F2321 PIC18F4321 PIC18F2420 PIC18F4420 PIC18F2450 PIC18F4450 PIC18F2455 PIC18F4455 PIC18F2520 PIC18F4520 PIC18F2525 PIC18F4525 PIC18F2550 PIC18F4550 PIC18F2620 PIC18F4620   20 pin     PIC18F13K22 PIC18F23K22 PIC18F43K22 PIC18F14K22 PIC18F24K22 PIC18F44K22 PIC18F25K22 PIC18F45K22 PIC18F26K22 PIC18F46K22

What are the PIC16F1936 and PIC18F2321 The PIC16F1826 or PIC16F1827 is the best place for a newcomer to begin learning about microcontrollers because these are very low cost and easy to use, and they are drop in replacements for the very popular PIC16F84 (with software changes). For projects needing a USART and an analogue to digital converter it is better to use a 28 pin PIC. For projects needing up to 2048 locations of programme memory the PIC16F1933 or PIC16F1936 are usually the best choice although a PIC18F2221 could be considered. For projects needing between 2048 and 4096 locations of programme memory the PIC18F2321 is perfect although a PIC16F1936 could be considered. For projects needing more than 4096 it is usually easier and better to use an 18F PIC such as a PIC18F2525 or PIC18F4525.