>
> Hi everyone.
>
> I'm just starting to learn about the PICs, and I'm looking for
> recommendations for a programmer (for a PC).  I've seen a couple listed in
> the FAQ, but I'd like a few opinions before I commit any of my hard-earned
> cash to one of them.
> Here's what I'd like to know...
>
> 1. Prices.  I'm looking for something affordable.  I've seen a couple of
> them
>    advertized for under $200 U.S.   That would be about right for me.
> 2. Ease of use.  Remember, I'm a beginner.
> 3. Which microcontrollers will it program?


I use the Parallax programmer, which is under $200, is extremely easy
to use and will program only (I think) 16C5X and 16C71.  I also use
the Parallax downloader (ROM emulator) and I have been very pleased
with it too. No fancy Windows interface, but would you honestly want
one?

I would rather have a command line utility -- the Parallax programming
software: "PEP" is, unfortunately, interactive, but stil only takes a few
keystrokes (and no painful mouse-clicks) to program a PIC.

So that's my opinion, but I have no experience really with other
programmers or emulators.

--Jason