The PICkit� 3 In-Circuit Debugger/Programmer from Microchip Technology is a no longer recommended hardware tool used for debugging and programming PIC� and dsPIC� Flash microcontrollers. It was introduced earlier and has limitations compared to newer offerings. Here's a breakdown of PICkit3, its functionalities, and current alternatives:
PICkit3 functionalities:
In-Circuit Debugging: PICkit3 allowed debugging PIC and dsPIC microcontrollers while they were still mounted on a circuit board (in-circuit). This enabled observing program execution and identifying errors in real-time.
Flash Programming: The PICkit3 could program the flash memory of compatible microcontrollers with new program code.
Obsolescence:
Microchip Recommendation: Microchip, the manufacturer, recommends using the newer PICkit 4 for new designs as of June 1, 2019. PICkit 4 offers wider support for newer microcontrollers and potentially improved functionalities.