> > I have found on the net some schematics for "A serial programmer for
> > PIC16C84" including software (c-language) and I tried it out!
> >
> > It works! With minimal costs!
>
> You can buy ready-made cheap PIC-programmers at 31 GBP / 390 SEK / 52 USD.
> Why then build it yourself? I mean, time is also valuable, especially if
> you possess the valuable technical skill of being able to write PIC
> software.

One reason is that, especially with the 16C84, you may gain ISP'ability.  In
fact, the very first PIC programmer I built evolved into being the center of
a project for my brother (which had to interface a PC with a bunch of photo-
gates and lights).  The programming logic was included in the early versions
of the application software, so when I changed the PIC code the application
would automatically "burn", execute, and then use the new PIC firmware.  This
ability may not be needed for every application, but when it's do-able it can
save a lot of time.