PICkit 3.5 Microchip Programmer / Debugger ICD2 / PIC Kit 3.5

PICkit 3.5 Microchip Programmer / Debugger (ICD2 Compatible)

PICkit 3.5 Microchip In-Circuit Programmer / Debugger — an upgraded version of the popular PICkit 3. Designed for Microchip PIC and dsPIC microcontrollers, this reliable tool supports MPLAB X IDE / ICD2 protocols and works seamlessly with nearly all PIC families. Ideal for embedded developers, engineers, students, and hobbyists looking for a robust, USB-powered programming interface for firmware development and debugging.

Key Features

Specifications & Compatibility
ModelPICkit 3.5 (Enhanced PICkit 3)
InterfaceUSB 2.0 (micro-USB)
Supported DevicesPIC10 / PIC12 / PIC16 / PIC18 / PIC24 / dsPIC33 / PIC32 families
SoftwareMPLAB X IDE / MPLAB IPE (Windows, macOS, Linux)
ProtocolsICSP / ICD / JTAG (depending on target device)
Target Voltage2.0V – 5.5V (automatic detection)
Power SupplyUSB bus-powered (no external supply needed)
Connection6-pin ICSP ribbon cable (included)
How to Use
  1. Install MPLAB X IDE and optionally MPLAB IPE from Microchip’s website.
  2. Connect the PICkit 3.5 to your PC via USB.
  3. Attach the 6-pin ICSP cable to your target board (Pin 1 = MCLR/VPP).
  4. In MPLAB X, select PICkit 3 / ICD2 Compatible as the programmer/debugger.
  5. Build and program your firmware directly into the microcontroller.
Advantages of PICkit 3.5 vs PICkit 3
  • Updated firmware — faster and more reliable programming
  • Enhanced power stability and USB connection
  • Better protection against static discharge and shorts
  • Supports older ICD2-based projects with updated compatibility
  • Plug-and-play recognition in MPLAB X and IPE
Compatible Software & Tools

✅ Recommended Software for PICkit 3.5 Programmer

  • MPLAB X IDE — full development and debugging suite for PIC microcontrollers.
  • MPLAB IPE (Integrated Programming Environment) — lightweight standalone programming tool for production flashing.
  • MPLAB 8.92 Legacy IDE — for older 8-bit PIC projects using legacy ICD2 or PICkit 3 scripts.
  • Microchip XC Compilers (XC8 / XC16 / XC32) — compile code for all PIC microcontrollers.
  • pk3cmd / piklab / AVRDUDE — community command-line or Linux tools for advanced automation.

🖥️ Operating System Compatibility

  • Windows 7 / 8 / 10 / 11 (32 & 64-bit)
  • macOS (Mojave to Ventura via MPLAB X IDE)
  • Linux (Ubuntu / Debian / Fedora supported via MPLAB X)

Tip: Always download the latest MPLAB X IDE and IPE from Microchip.com for best results and firmware updates.

Possible Uses & Applications

🔧 Typical Applications

  • Firmware Development & Debugging — compile, upload, and debug C/C++ code for all PIC MCU families.
  • Bootloader Programming — flash custom firmware or bootloaders into embedded devices.
  • Educational Projects — ideal for electronics labs and microcontroller training.
  • Prototype & Product Development — reprogram PIC MCUs on breadboards or custom PCBs.
  • Hardware Testing & Diagnostics — monitor registers and variables in real time with ICD mode.
  • Production Line Programming — automate bulk firmware flashing with MPLAB IPE scripting.

💡 Advanced / Professional Uses

  • ICD (In-Circuit Debugging) — set breakpoints, inspect variables, and step through code live.
  • Voltage Detection & Auto Power Control — automatic VDD sensing to protect your hardware.
  • Wide Device Support — from small PIC10F chips to advanced 32-bit PIC32MX and dsPIC33 devices.
  • Microchip Evaluation Boards — compatible with Explorer 16/32, Curiosity, and other dev kits.

This tool is perfect for both beginners and professionals — from learning PIC programming to building and debugging real embedded systems.

Common Applications
  • Programming microcontrollers on development boards
  • Debugging embedded firmware in-circuit
  • Firmware updates for IoT and automation devices
  • Educational and hobby electronics labs