4.7.2.4 Requirements for Debugging

To debug (set breakpoints, see registers, etc.) with the MPLAB PICkit 5 In-Circuit Debugger system, there are critical elements that must be working correctly:

• The debugger must be powered, must be connected to a computer, and must be communicating with the MPLAB X IDE software.
• The target device must have power and a functional, running oscillator. If for any reason the target device does not run, the MPLAB PICkit 5 In-Circuit Debugger will not be able to debug it.
• The target device must have its Configuration words programmed correctly. These may be set using code or the Configuration Bits window in MPLAB X IDE.
  • The oscillator Configuration bits should correspond to oscillator types available on the target.
  • For some devices, the Watchdog Timer is enabled by default and needs to be disabled.
  • The target device must not have any type of code protection enabled.
  • The target device must not have table read protection enabled.
• For some devices with more than one PGC/PGD pair, the correct pair needs to be selected in the device’s configuration word settings. This only refers to debugging, since programming will work through any PGC/PGD pair.