PICkit3

Originally contributed by @henkwiedig
Additional testing by @jniclas

Download MPLAB IPE

Microchip provides their Integrated Programming Environment (IPE) as a free download bundled with their whole Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It is available for Linux, Windows, and macOS. For the latest version, see MPLAB X IDE Downloads.

Note that the "PICkit 3 Stand-Alone Programmer App" is also available from their downloads archive. The stand-alone app is better if you are using Windows and you are only flashing the new firmware (i.e. you don't want to download or use the rest of the IDE functionality).

Advanced Mode settings for MPLAB IPE

Enable the power supply in the MPLAB IPE:

• Settings → Advanced Mode → Password "microchip"
• Power → Select "Power target circuit from PICkit3"

While you are in the Advanced mode enable the Hex Export function:

• Production → Select "Allow Export Hex"

Then Logout logout from the Advanced Mode

ICSP pin connection

5 wires/pins must be connected between the board and the programmer.

Spacing of these holes is standard pitch that matches the PICkit pins. I was able to connect without any soldering by plugging a long pin header into the programmer and leaning it inside the holes enough to make contact.

Verify connection

• Device → Select "PIC16LF1938" → Apply
• Connect
• Acknowledge the warning message

Dump Firmware Backup

• Klick on Read
• After it shows "Read complete" → File → Export → Hex → Save it

Write New Firmware

• Klick on Browse for "Hex file" and select the .hex file you downloaded from the releases page
• Klick on "Program"
• Klick on "Verify"

Test New Firmware

Proceed to test and adjust the new firmware.