MPLAB ICD 4 Help

Debugger to Target Communication

Note: The MPLAB X IDE software must be installed prior to connecting the MPLAB ICD 4 In-Circuit Debugger.

The debugger is connected to the computer via a USB cable for communication and debugger power (not target power).

The debugger is connected to the target application for communication and data collection. Refer to “Connecting an RJ-11 Type Cable to an RJ-45 Jack on the Debugger” for pinout information.

The power supply (not included) is connected either to the target application (preferred method) or the debugger to provide power to the target.

The debugger system configurations are discussed in the following sections.

	CAUTION
	Communication Failure. Do not connect the hardware before installing the software and USB drivers.

	CAUTION
	Debugger or Target Damage. Do not change hardware connections while the debugger or target is powered.

Standard ICSP Device Communication

Note: For header support, see the Release Notes for MPLAB ICD 4 in MPLAB X IDE v5.25 or greater.

The debugger system can be configured to use standard 6-pin ICSP (modular cable) communication connection for both programming and debugging functions. The modular cable can be inserted into either:

•	a matching socket at the target, where the target device is on the target board (Figure: Standard Debugger System – Device with On-Board ICE Circuitry).

•	a standard adapter/header board combo (available as a Processor Extension Pak), which is then plugged into the target board (Figure: Standard Debugger System – ICE Device).

Note: Older header boards used a 6-pin (RJ-11 type) modular connector instead of an 8-pin connector, so these headers may be connected directly to the debugger.

For more on standard communication, see “Standard Communication”.

Figure: Standard Debugger System – Device with On-Board ICE Circuitry

Figure: Standard Debugger System – ICE Device

Microchip Support Help Updated: 2019-06-25 10:29:53Z Help Page: 7