Quote Originally Posted by dmacq View Post
... I switched to Microcode Studio, use it to write a hex file and then open Epic to load the hexfile into my chip.
I say BELIEVE, because the Pic still won't work.
EPIC appears to program and verify the 16F876 chip....but when I transfer it to my breadboard --- NOTHING.

And strangely, my logic probe records a high on RC6. Which is strange since I don't think I've bothered with Port C in any way.
Which button in MicroCode Studio did you use to compile the program?

Since the TX pin starts up as output high, it appears that you've compiled it for Debug mode (ICD Compile).
The Pic will sit and do nothing until it connects to the MCS Debugger via RS-232.

Use the buttons next to the Device select Drop-down box.
"Compile Only" or "Compile and Program"

hth,