RCD Programmer

Archive New Product Ideas
1

Idea for a cheap PIC programmer to replace/supplement the PG-1: the RCD programmer, as documented here:

http://feng3.cool.ne.jp/en/rcd.html

I had some serious problems with the PG-1 and discovered problems with JDM designs and PICs like the 12F675 when using the internal oscillator. Those problems can be found documented here:

http://users.tpg.com.au/btkelly/jdm_b.htm

That link advises adding a MOSFET to the JDM design, but I wasn’t able to modify my PG-1 so I can’t vouch for it.

The RCD I built works great, though. Very simple–only resistors, caps, and diodes are needed (hence the name). After a bit of playing around, it now works perfectly 100% of the time.

There are only 16 components which should be <$1 in total cost (not counting wire/PCB/housing/etc.).

Incidentally, no criticism of Olimex is meant–the PG-1 works perfectly as designed. The problem is with the JDM design, not Olimex’s workmanship (which is exemplary, expecially for an $11 item!).

-Scott

2

Thank you for posting the link to that RCD Programmer, I would have never found it otherwise.

I’m working on making a pre-assembled board using a charge pump VPP like the RCD Programmer. You can read about my progress and get the current schematic from here:

http://www.k9spud.com/hoodmicro/

I’m not ready to start selling them yet, but I’m getting closer…

3

You’re welcome!

That’s a neat project; I may well be interested in one in the future.

-Scott

4

Nice project! I recognize those PCB confirmation emails and the plastic hoods !:wink:

-Nathan

5

Totally wouldn’t be possible to cram that much electronics inside a DB9 to DB25 plastic hood if it wasn’t for low cost, double sided PCBs with plated through holes from SparkFun! :smiley: