Microchip Technology Introduces PICkit(TM) 3 Debug Express

New Kit Provides Higher Performance for Microchip's Most Popular Low-Cost Development Platform

CHANDLER, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP), a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, today announced the PICkit(TM) 3 Debug Express kit (Part # DV164131). Overcoming the cost and complexity barriers to enter the world of code development and embedded programming, the new kit is priced at just $69.99 and includes:

    --  PICkit 3 debugger and programmer probe

    --  44-pin demo board populated with a PIC18F45K20 MCU

    --  the free MPLAB(R) Integrated Development Environment

    --  free version of the MPLAB C Compiler for PIC18 MCUs

    --  easy-to-understand lessons and tutorials

    --  a host of other software utilities, examples with source code
        and full documentation

The PICkit 3 debug express works with 8- and 16-bit PIC(R) microcontrollers (MCUs) and dsPIC(R) Digital Signal Controllers (DSCs), and will support 32-bit PIC MCUs at a later date. Support for new PIC MCUs and DSCs, as well as the PIC32 MCUs, will be available as free firmware upgrades in future releases of the MPLAB IDE.

The PICkit 3 Debug Express Kit makes it easy to explore the world of embedded control and to learn quickly, using the free MPLAB Integrated Development Environment. Connected to and powered by any personal computer via USB, the plug-and-play kit provides in-circuit debugging functions such as halt, single step, breakpoint on data or address, and a stopwatch for measuring target application performance. It can supply target power to the 44-pin demo board, hence no external power is required. Additionally, with a 6-pin ICSP(TM) connector similar to that on the PICkit 2 debug express, the PICkit 3 probe is compatible with PICkit 2 demo kits and with Microchip's MPLAB ICD 2 and 3-compatible demonstration/evaluation kits using an optional RJ-11 to ICSP adapter (Part # AC164110).

"Microchip again delivers the most performance value for an entry-level development platform," said Derek Carlson, vice president of Development Systems at Microchip Technology. "The PICkit 3 debug express kit is a new, affordable option for cost-sensitive environments with higher performance. Even the hobbyist, the teacher who is strapped to equip a lab for the coming year, or the engineer in emerging markets can use Microchip's superior development tools at a breakthrough price."

Pricing & Availability

The PICkit 3 debug express kit (Part # DV164131) comes complete with the PICkit 3 probe, a 44-pin PIC18F45K20 Flash MCU demo board, a USB cable and CDs containing the MPLAB IDE, tutorials, and a user's guide. It is priced at $69.99 and will be available January 2009 from microchipDIRECT (www.microchipdirect.com) or Microchip distributors.

For further information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip's Web site at www.microchip.com/pickit3.

Microchip Customer Support

Microchip is committed to supporting its customers by helping design engineers develop products faster and more efficiently. Customers can access four main service areas at www.microchip.com. The Support area provides a fast way to get questions answered; the Sample area offers free evaluation samples of any Microchip device; microchipDIRECT provides 24-hour pricing, ordering, inventory and credit for convenient purchasing of all Microchip devices and development tools; finally, the Training area educates customers through webinars, sign-ups for local seminar and workshop courses, and information about the annual MASTERs events held throughout the world.

About Microchip Technology

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP) is a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, providing low-risk product development, lower total system cost and faster time to market for thousands of diverse customer applications worldwide. Headquartered in Chandler, Ariz., Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.

Note: The Microchip name and logo, dsPIC, MPLAB and PIC are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. ICSP and PICkit are trademarks of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

Photo available through editorial contact.

Source: Microchip Technology Inc.

Released November 11, 2008