John Chung wrote:
> Olin , could you pls describe the main difference
> between ICD2 and USBProg?

The two most obvious differences is that the ICD2 is also a debugger, and
the USBProg costs 2.5 times less.

> I do know that the USBProg
> support variable voltage to test the chip which is one
> of the requirements for a production programmer. The
> next best thing is multiple USBProg connection to the
> PC. Any other good differences that I am missing out?

I'm not sure what the ICD2 clock and data output drivers look like.  I think
the USBProg can supply more target power, but am not sure about the ICD2
specs.  The ICD2 is a competent hobby and development programmer.  It's
integration into MPLAB can be a plus when actively developing and debugging.

On the other hand, the USBProg programs are command line based and therefore
scriptable.  Not needing MPLAB up and being able to automate programming can
be very useful anytime you're not actively developing with MPLAB.  For
example, you've just developed a new firmware release using the ICD2, MPLAB,
and your special debug hardware.  Now you want a coworker to deploy it on 10
units in the test center.  Having to run MPLAB to do this is tedious and
error prone.  It's alot easier to give them a single command to type to
program each unit.


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