One of my CZ ICD2 clones broke, so I decided
to take a chance with a Hong Kong Co, "Etekronix",
sold on EBay called "Mini-ICD2".

What is appealing is that for less than $50,
you get a working ICD2 powered by a spare
USB port PLUS a programming module complete
with 40P ZIF socket. No wallwart is needed, and
since no regulator is needed, either, the unit
runs very cool..

It has an RJ12 just like the original ICD2, but it
also has a 6-pin header. The header is more
appealing to me because it allows more versatile
connections (standard telephone cable is VERY
stiff, I break a lot of wires).

The construction of the all thru-hole unit is very
well done. The PCB has good grounds and a
small size of  2.5" x 2.5". It uses the PIC16F876A
instead of the PIC16F877, saving a lot of space.

Problem: The Mini-ICD2 has its RJ12 laid out
mirror-image to the original ICD2. This will probably
be corrected shortly, but presently will pose a problem.
But the alternative  6-pin header works very well, and
I prefer it anyway.

One of my USB-RS232 Serial converter cables doesn't
work with this, but I think the second one will.

I'll let everybody know how it goes.

--Bob

-- 
Note: To protect our network,
attachments must be sent to
attach@engineer.cotse.net .
1-520-850-1673 USA/Canada
http://beam.to/azengineer

-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist