Quote Originally Posted by jessey View Post
Thanks Steve,

Yes I had a look and it seems to be compatible with all the microprocessors. I posted the wrong URL in my last post for the PICKIT 2, here's the proper one www.microchip.com/pickit2

It even comes with a free getting started in PicBasic Pro tutorial on developing and debugging in basic. How cool is that but then the price jumps from $34.99 to $49.99 for that feature but well worth the extra 10 bucks I'm certain and as Dick Ivers points out, another hidden benefit is that the purchase gives you access to Microchip's Technical Support! Another thing I was going to ask, with the PICKIT 2 can I use a breadboard for programming my micro's reliably or should I be using a ZIF adapter?

I will be purchasing the PICKIT 2 for sure in the very near future. I wonder if I can upgrade my MicroCode Studio Plus so it'll run on my laptop with Vista or if I'll have to purchase another copy, either way it'll be worth it. Now I'll also have to purchase another Cad program to design my circuit boards with that's compatible with Vista, does anyone here know of an inexpensive hobbyist Cad program for under $100.00?

Thanks
jessey
I really feel and am using breadboard for programming PICs other than obviously the SMD versions. for the SMD we can follow ICSP methods.
As time passes, I only expect Microchip to bring down the Price of the PICKIT2 to may be below $27.
As regards the cad program, perhaps you may consider PCB123. It is working fine for my hobby needs.