I found the answer in the FAQ. "MPLAB X users will find the examples section useful for quickly getting started with proven example code. In addition, MPLAB Xpress highlights the potential code savings that could be realized by upgrading to a PRO subscription." "MPLAB X IDE is, and will always be free. Our XC compilers are offered in Standard (Free) and PRO ($29.99 monthly subscription, or $1000 to buy) variants." So it is still priced way beyond a Student's budget in most countries. On Tue, Feb 16, 2016 at 4:23 AM, Chris Roper wrote: > Is it using the full version of XC8 or the free crippled version? > > If it is free, and the full version of the compiler, it will be a great > tool for beginners and students. > If on the other hand it is still deliberately crippling the code it could > do them more harm than good. > > > Cheers > Chris > > > On Tue, Feb 16, 2016 at 1:51 AM, Denny Esterline > wrote: > >> One thing I do like, the programmer attached to the dev board enumerates >> as >> a mass storage device. Programming is done via drag and drop the hex fil= e. >> >> I suspect there may be some useful tidbits if they release that source >> code. >> >> -Denny >> -- >> http://www.piclist.com/techref/piclist PIC/SX FAQ & list archive >> View/change your membership options at >> http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist >> > > --=20 http://www.piclist.com/techref/piclist PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist .