frustrated!!! HI ALL

[jagger]

I have the pickit2 starter kit just got it 2 days ago I am as new to this as you can get. My question is where do i start i have read alot of stuff on pic basic and still not much of it makes any sense to me. I have gotten the led to blink and several of the programs included in the lpc lessons. BUT they are their programs and i cant figure out a place to write anything to try my own program (not that i have one) im just trying to learn to crawl and i cant even role over.

[Pic_User]

I have the pickit2 starter kit just got it 2 days ago I am as new to this as you can get. My question is where do i start i have read alot of stuff on pic basic and still not much of it makes any sense to me. I have gotten the led to blink and several of the programs included in the lpc lessons. BUT they are their programs and i cant figure out a place to write anything to try my own program (not that i have one) im just trying to learn to crawl and i cant even role over.
Hi jagger,

Welcome to the world of the PIC Microchip.

First some questions.

“lpc lessons”? Is that referring to
“Low Pin Count (LPC) Demo Board”, that comes with the PICkit2

What version of PicBASIC do you have
Pic BASIC Pro
Pic BASIC compiler
Pic BASIC Pro trial

Are you using a Pic BASIC editor, like MicoCode Studio
MicroCode Studio
MicroCode Studio Plus

Generally the higher level code (BASIC) is typed into an editor. You could use NotePad, but a specialized editor is much easier to use.

MicroCode Studio
Pic BASIC
http://www.rentron.com/

-Adam-

[jagger]

yes lpc demo board the kit i have has 2 disks one says mplab ide v7.60a the other sayspickit starter kit that is all i got. sorry for the stupid questions

[jagger]

Do I need to download something else?

[Pic_User]

yes lpc demo board the kit i have has 2 disks one says mplab ide v7.60a the other sayspickit starter kit that is all i got. sorry for the stupid questions
Hi jagger,

The only stupid questions, are the ones you DON’T ask. :) The forum is here to answer questions.

Yes, you should download a bunch of stuff.

First you should know:
The compiler that changes the BASIC you type, into something, that the free software from Microchip, can change into PIC language (HEX) is pretty expensive.
At least for a hobbyist’s budget, Pic BASIC Pro seems expensive.
Almost everyone on this (Pic BASIC Pro (PBP)) forum has bought the software, and most would tell you it is worth the money.

Without SOME kind of a “higher level” language compiler, you will have to write your code in “assembly” language. Do-able but a steep learning curve. MPLAB has an editor for assembly language.

Pic BASIC Pro, (BASIC compiler) is available as a limited “lite” demo-type FREE down load. This is to let you try a few short programs, but not for any longer complicated ones.

I hope others come in and help you with advice, and opinion. I think PBP is well worth the INVESTMENT about $249 USD.

MicroCode Studio = File Editor/IDE for the PicBasic compilers
They have an entry level free for hobbist, not so powerful as the MicroCode Studio Plus.

There is a newer MPLAB something like 8.0 or higer (free)

You can search for them on the internet.

Who else has some advice for jagger?

-Adam-

[BobK]

Hi Adam,

If you have the time I would say keep going. You're doing just fine.

Jagger, PICUser is right. Going to PicBasicPro is the better way to go. I spent alot of money starting with Basic Stamps then moved up to PicBasic then onto PBP. What a way to learn but for me it was worth it.

The people here will help you out. But since PicUser started out, I'll let him continue.

BobK

[jagger]

Thanks Guys

[Archangel]

Hi Jagger,
Please allow me to chime in on this, They're right, it is worth the money, but do not just take my word for it, go to M E Labs and download the freebie version and try it out. Do not get suckered into buying someone else's old disc, you are not legally licensed to use it as the software license is not transferrable, and not upgradeable, I would suggest for you to buy from Reynolds Electronics . . RENTRON . . . Bruce is a regular ( one of the gurus) and I think he charges a little less, than M E Labs website, he is an authorised reseller and an altogether good guy. On his website too are numerous freebie to use examples, as well as on M E Labs website there are samples too.
JS
http://www.rentron.com/PicBasic/products/PICBASIC-PRO.htm