Hi, not cheap, but:
<http://auelectronics.com/System-PICkit2.htm>
is a pickit2 clone, runs with microchip's software.  Can run standalone=20
- no computer needed.  I generally tell clients they should buy (or I=20
will provide an bill them for) the BB0703+128K.

I'm looking for a cheaper and faster to get alternative since they are=20
in canada and a few days shipping time is unavoidable.  Otherwise it=20
work well and I recommend them.

Thanks for starting this thread - interesting things I have not heard=20
about have come up already.

J


Neil wrote:
> What is the latest preferred choice for a PIC programmer that can
> program directly from pre-compiled hex files?  Microchip is trying to
> fade off the PICkit2 (which I love), and replace it with the PICkit3.
> However, there is only a beta standalone app for that which is buggy and
> apparently is not going to be supported anymore. I generally prefer to
> use the manufacturer's tools, but willing to go third party here if I
> can trust it will be properly supported over time (ie: being updated for
> better apps).
>
> The intention is that I give pre-built hex files to others to flash
> firmware and don't want to give out the source code, nor have them work
> in that environment.  One of the things I've been meaning to do (with
> the PICkit2) is to build a small embedded system (most prob linux) with
> a small keypad and LCD interface that would someone select from hundreds
> (yes, hundreds) of files and it would invoke the PICkit2 to flash the
> code onto a device.  I can't find anything for the PICkit3 that would
> let me do that.
>
> Thanks.
>
--=20
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