- Offline “Programmer-To-Go”: Download HEX files once and program target MCUs anywhere with a single button press. No computer required for onsite updates.
- ICD2 Simulation Logic: Enhanced hardware stability allows for reliable emulation and debugging in the MPLAB environment, similar to the legacy ICD2 units but with USB 2.0 speed.
- Broad Device Support: Comprehensive support for most 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit PIC microcontrollers.
- Three-in-One Utility: Works as a Programmer, a Debugger, and a UART Serial Tool (for basic console communication/terminal testing).
- Adjustable VDD Power: Software-controlled voltage output (2.5V to 5.0V) allows you to power your target board directly from the USB port (up to 100mA).
- Safety Protection: Integrated over-voltage and short-circuit protection to safeguard both your PC and the target application.
PIC KIT2 Offline Programmer & Debugger Offline/Programming/Emulator with ICD2
| PC Interface | USB 2.0 Full Speed |
|---|---|
| Connection Port | 6-Pin ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) |
| Target Voltage (Vdd) | 2.5 V – 5.0 V (Adjustable via Software) |
| Programming Voltage (Vpp) | 1.8 V – 13.5 V (Internal DC-DC Boost) |
| Debug Support | Breakpoints, Single-stepping, Variable Watch |
| Offline Memory | Onboard EEPROM for 1x HEX file storage |
| Operating System | Windows 7, 10, 11 (Supports 32/64-bit) |


- Software Prep: Install the latest MPLAB X IDE or the standalone PICkit 2 Programmer v2.61.
- Hardware Hookup: Connect the PIC KIT2 to your PC. Connect the ICSP header to your target board (ensure Pin 1/MCLR alignment).
- Online Debugging: Open your project in MPLAB, select PICkit 2 as the debugger, and use the “Debug” icon to begin real-time code analysis.
- Offline Programming (Programmer-To-Go):
- Open the PICkit 2 standalone software.
- Load your project HEX file.
- Go to Programmer > Download To Programmer-To-Go.
- Once loaded, the unit can be disconnected. Press the physical “Push” button on the unit while connected to a powered target board to flash it.
- LED Indicators:
- Power (Green): System Ready.
- Target (Yellow): Target board detected/powered.
- Busy (Red): Data transmission or programming in progress.
While it uses ICD2-compatible logic for debugging stability, it is much smaller, USB-powered, and faster. Unlike the bulky original ICD2, this unit does not require an external power brick for standard operation.
Yes. While Microchip has moved to PICkit 4/5, the PIC KIT2 remains fully supported in MPLAB X via the “PICkit 2” hardware selection for most legacy and mid-range devices.
No. This tool is dedicated specifically to the Microchip PIC and dsPIC families. For AVR/SAM support, we recommend our PICkit 4 listings.
Yes. Business customers prefer this model for its Offline Mode, which prevents sensitive source code from being exposed on assembly line PCs. Operators only need to press a button to program, minimizing human error.
Absolutely. The software allows you to cap the voltage at 3.3V (or as low as 2.5V) to prevent damaging sensitive low-voltage microcontrollers.







