Mini PIC Training Course – Part 2
by Peter Brunning
The second part of our Mini Training Course has two interesting
objectives. The first is to create PIC code to measure
temperature using three different sensors. The second is to
measure the power from a solar panel. Both of these require
knowledge of driving a display and using the PIC’s Analogueto-Digital Converter (ADC), so that is where we start.
Most of the code comes from the library, which is built into
the BSPWA assembler, then we type in the instructions to link
the required library routines. All the code is written to run in
a PIC18F24K22 fitted in a GPICZv8 general-purpose training
circuit. The GPICZv8 is shown on the left with LCD and keypad.
The CD and 100-watt solar panel load are on the right.
The 144-page manual assumes a Brunning Software
programmer is being used (P205, P931, P942 or P955). The
price of £89 includes all the items in the picture, plus an LM35
and thermistor temperature sensor, a BMP280 temperature
and air pressure sensor, and a P205. Price is £70 without P205.
See our website for full details: www.brunningsoftware.com
The Brunning Software P955H
PIC Training Course
When you are first learning about PICs, whether you are a complete
beginner or an experienced programmer, you need an uncomplicated
system which allows you to learn without getting bogged down in system
procedure. That is why we created the P955H PIC training circuit and our
own PIC assembler.
The first book teaches absolute beginners to write PIC programmes
using assembler, which is the natural language of the PIC. The first book
starts by assuming you know nothing about PICs, but instead of wading into
the theory we jump straight in with four easy experiments. Then,
having gained some experience, we study the basic principles
of PIC programming, learn about the 8-bit timer, how to drive
the alphanumeric liquid crystal display, create a real-time clock,
and experiment with the watchdog timer, sleep mode, beeps
and music. Then there are two projects to work through. In the
space of 24 experiments, two project and 56 exercises we work
through from absolute beginner to experienced engineer level
using the latest 8-bit PICs (16F and 18F).
The second book introduces the C programming
language for 8-bit PICs in very simple terms. The third
book, Experimenting with Serial Communications, teaches
Visual C# programming for the PC so that we can create PC
programmes to control PIC circuits.
In the fourth book, we learn to programme 32-bit MX PICs using fundamental C instructions. Flash the LEDs, study
the 16-bit and 32-bit timers, write text to the LCD, and enter numbers using the keypad. This is all quite straightforward
as most of the code is the same as already used with the 8-bit PICs. Then life gets more complex as we delve into serial
communications with the final task being to create an audio oscilloscope with advanced triggering and adjustable scan rate.
The complete P955H training course is £279, which includes the P955H training circuit, four books (240 × 170mm,
1200 pages total), six PIC microcontrollers, PIC assembler and programme text on CD, two USB-to-PC leads, a pack of
components, and carriage to a UK address. (To programme 32-bit PICs you will need to plug in a PICkit 3 or 4. You can buy
PICkit 4 from Microchip Direct for around £64).
Prices start from £189 for the P955H training circuit with Books 1 and 2 (240 × 170mm, 624 pages total), two PIC
microcontrollers, PIC assembler and programme text on CD, USB-to-PC lead, and carriage to UK address. (PICkit 3 or 4
not needed for this option.) You can buy Books 3 and 4, USB PIC, 32-bit PIC and the components kit as required later. See
the Brunning website for details: www.brunningsoftware.com
Mail order address:
138 The Street, Little Clacton, Clacton-on-sea,
Essex, CO16 9LS. Tel 01255 862308
