Can't decide what programmer to buy

Good points. The U2 runs under MicroCode Studio.

Perhaps a better choice would be the PICkit2 bundle from Microchip. It's a lot less expensive, too, at $49.99:

https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2008/08/51570a.pdf

I've not used the PICkit products but I've heard good things about them.

I use the ICD2 "hockey puck". For other devices (non-PIC µP), I have a trusty old Needham's EMP-11.

RussMartin said:

Perhaps a better choice would be the PICkit2 bundle from Microchip. It's a lot less expensive, too, at $49.99:

https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2008/08/51570a-1.pdf

I've not used the PICkit products but I've heard good things about them.

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I have a real PICkit 2 and a Junebug (PICkit 2 clone). They're excellent. Fast and well supported.

You can get a PICkit 2 clone for like $28.00 (bare board for $23).

I use the ICD2 "hockey puck".

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I have two ICD2 compatible's. One Inchworm+/Unicorn combo (USB ICD2) which is as fast as a PICkit 2, and a DipMicro **broken link removed** which is a serial ICD2 clone. Slow, but reliable.

It's good to have more than one. If one gives you trouble or doesn't have good debugging support (PICkit 2 w/18F248) I just switch to another one.

For other devices (non-PIC µP), I have a trusty old Needham's EMP-11.

Click to expand...

For non-PICs I have an Atmel STK-500 and an AVR Dragon with Ecros Dragon Rider 500