I am new to PIC micros and I am trying to build Myke's ElCheapo from the website (the home built version using 74LS05). I am using the windows version of the programmer. I have gone through all the build/test steps and they all work except for step 9 as follows: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Step 9: Check the VPP Driver 1. Solder: a. Solder 10k Base Current Limiting Resistor (R8) to R9/U3 Pin 6 Connection. b. Solder in 2N3906 PNP Bipolar Transistor (Q1) as shown in the diagram to the left. Leave the Transistor's Collector floating (unconnected). c. Connection from Collector of Q1 to Pin 4 of U2 (PICmicro MCU to be programmed). 2. Connect El Cheapo to AC/DC ('Wall Wart') Power Supply and Measure Voltage *output from 74LS05* by connecting the Positive Output of the DMM and Ground as shown in diagram to left. a. Click on 'Low' Below. If Voltage at Q1's Collector does not change, Check wiring at at base current limiting resistor resistor (R8). The voltage may only drop to 5 or 6 volts. You may want to repeat this test after the part number socket is wired in with a PICmicro MCU installed to make sure that this line drops to less than 0.3 Volts b. Click on 'High' Below. If Voltage at Q1's Collector is less than 13 Volts, Check wiring at base current limiting resistor (R8) and connection between Q1's Emitter and 13 Volts. When you have appropriate voltages out of Q1's Collector for 'Low' and 'High', Disconnect Power and Click on ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ With the P16F84A not connected; the voltage at the collector of Q1 is ~ 13 volts when I Click on Low it is also at ~ 13 volts. If I understand Step 9 correctly; the collector should drop 5 or 6 volts when I click Low. I did connect the collector to Pin 4 of the 16F84 just to see and it went to 8 volts when I clicked low. My knowledge of transistors is very limited. Am I understanding Step 9 okay? Do you think I am not actually programming the 16F84A? Please help. I am very frustrated. Thanks, Don Hewitt -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist