First, I just want to acknowledge the fact that this question has probably been asked to death at these forums. I have searched around and spyed out similar topics but unfortunately none have ceased to satisfy all my questions.
Lately I have wanted to shift into the realm of Micro-controllers and have opted for the PIC's rather than the AVR. But I get confused when it comes to picking a programmer.
My needs in a programmer is to be able to use MPLab in its entirety (Thus not just editing of code and converting it to a .hex, and using third party software to programme my PIC). I have researched and finally decided to go for either an ICD2 or Pickit2 clone.
Tl;dr version (too long; didnt read)
Thanks in advance
Lately I have wanted to shift into the realm of Micro-controllers and have opted for the PIC's rather than the AVR. But I get confused when it comes to picking a programmer.
My needs in a programmer is to be able to use MPLab in its entirety (Thus not just editing of code and converting it to a .hex, and using third party software to programme my PIC). I have researched and finally decided to go for either an ICD2 or Pickit2 clone.
Tl;dr version (too long; didnt read)
Questions:
The Pickit2 is also capable of ICSP and ICD - Then what advantages does ICD2 have over it? Something in software or compatibility?
What is needed for ICSP? (USB, Rj12, RJ12 to 6 pin head, ICD2/PicKit2)
Is it worth purchasing an ICD2/PicKit2 clone over the original, not because of the price factor but also because they come with ZIF moudules?
I have searched on ebay and found these:
**broken link removed**
(Does this one come with everything needed to do ICSP)
**broken link removed**
I assume this one has the full package for ICSP?
Thanks in advance