Debug Options

MPLAB ICD 4 Help

Debugger Function Summary : Debugger Options Selection : Debug Options

Debug Options

Use software breakpoints, if available, for the project device.

Table: Debug Options Option Category

Use Software Breakpoints

Check to use software breakpoints. Uncheck to use hardware breakpoints. See discussion below to determine which type is best for your application.

Table: Software vs Hardware Breakpoints

Features

Software Breakpoints

Hardware Breakpoints

Number of breakpoints

Unlimited

Limited

Breakpoints are written to

Program Memory

Debug Registers

Time to set breakpoints

Oscillator Speed Dependent – can take minutes

Minimal

Skidding

No

Yes

Note: Using software breakpoints for debugging impacts device endurance. Therefore, it is recommended that devices used in this manner not be used as production parts.

Table: Debug Options Option Category
Use Software Breakpoints	Check to use software breakpoints. Uncheck to use hardware breakpoints. See discussion below to determine which type is best for your application.

Table: Software vs Hardware Breakpoints
Features	Software Breakpoints	Hardware Breakpoints
Number of breakpoints	Unlimited	Limited
Breakpoints are written to	Program Memory	Debug Registers
Time to set breakpoints	Oscillator Speed Dependent – can take minutes	Minimal
Skidding	No	Yes
Note: Using software breakpoints for debugging impacts device endurance. Therefore, it is recommended that devices used in this manner not be used as production parts.

Microchip Support

Help Updated: 2017-07-26 14:01:01Z

Help Page: 56