Introduction
PICs are an enabling technology. All those logic, control, communication and display functions that our projects need can be packed into a single chip--a chip that can be reconfigured at your pleasure. PIC development can be done with just a handful of parts: as EPROM eraser, some kind of programming language and a low-cost PIC programmer. Here are some "getting started in development" articles and some "just build what I did" articles. Originally, a PIC was a programmable interface controller, but one can also see it defined as peripheral interface controller.
The Basic Stamp, Picaxe, and Arduino combine a processsor with rudimentary programming, so you don't have to spend as much time re-inventing the wheel and can concentrate on developing something new.
Articles
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Learning to PIC with a PIC-EL -- Part 1 by Craig Johnson AA0ZZ. May 2007 - QST Pg. 37-42
Learning to PIC with a PIC-EL -- Part 2 by Craig Johnson AA0ZZ Jun 2007 - QST Page. 33-36. A programmer for PICs that plugs into the serial port.
- PIC Development on a Shoestring
QST March 1999, pp. 49-51
Some ideas on how to develop PIC-based projects. - Bridge the Digital Divide--Basically
QST April 2001, pp. 30-34
The Basic Stamp is a powerful, yet friendly, digital building block that puts scores of smart circuits at your fingertips. Here's how to get started. - A PIC of an IDer
QST January 1998, pp. 36-38
A useful project and some tips on programming your own PICs. - A Basic Stamp Morse Call-Sign Generator
QST October 2000, pp. 40-41 - A Universal Logging Computer Interface (Hints and Kinks)
QST July 2000, pp. 61-62
Have your automatic entry logging program get information from your rig even if the radio is not computer compatable! - Using PIC Microcontrollers in Amateur Radio Projects
QST October 1998, pp. 34-40
Learn more about PIC microcontrollers.
Download software: picqs10.zip
Feedback: QST February 1999, p. 72 - A PIC SWR Meter
QST December 1999, pp. 40-43
Build a computing SWR meter. - An Inexpensive, Remote-Base Station Controller Using the Basic Stamp
QST May 1998, pp. 33-37
Operate your home station from another location. Clubs can set up remote HF stations for all members to use, - An Inexpensive KISS-Mode TNC
QST November 2000, pp.53-56
Only 4 ICs and a small PC board.
Web Links
- Ham Radio for Arduino and Picaxe Companion Website for the book.
- Microchip Technology
Mentioned as a place to start in "A PIC of an IDer" - Welcome to the official PICList home page
A collection of sites interested in the Microchip PIC and other similar processors
Technology >> Radio Technology Topics >> Engineering References >> IC Programming and Amateur Radio Projects