5.1 Power Requirements for Programmer-To-Go

When Connected to Computer

When the MPLAB PICkit 4 is connected to the computer and in the MPLAB X IDE or MPLAB IPE application, use the supplied USB cable between the computer and the Micro-B USB connector located on the top of the tool.

When Programming a Device Using PTG

When the MPLAB PICkit 4 is connected to the remote target board for programming a device using Programmer-To-Go, the minimum power required from the target board to the MPLAB PICkit 4 is 350 mA.

If sufficient power cannot be supplied from the target board, then MPLAB PICkit 4 must be powered by a 5V power supply through the Micro-B USB connector on the top of the MPLAB PICkit 4 tool. There are several options for providing power, such as, using:

  • Any available PC USB port or USB hub port (no USB communication is necessary; it is only used to provide power).
  • A USB host port on a portable device.
  • A USB power adapter or charger with a USB Micro-B connector, either from an automotive power jack or an AC wall plug.
  • A portable battery charge or power source for cell phones or other portable devices with USB Micro-B connector.
  • A custom battery pack that supplies regulated 5V into the MPLAB PICkit 4 USB Micro-B connector.
The USB power source used should meet the following minimum criteria:
  • Is able to supply at least 350 mA of current to the MPLAB PICkit 4 tool.
  • Provides a steady, regulated 4.5V to 5.5V output.
Note:
  1. Most portable chargers/power devices with their own batteries will not give an indication when their internal battery voltage gets low and the output drops below 4.5V. Therefore, you must be sure the device’s battery has sufficient remaining capacity to power the MPLAB PICkit 4 above 4.5V.
  2. Any battery-based power sources should be disconnected from the MPLAB PICkit 4 unit when it is not in use. Otherwise, the MPLAB PICkit 4 unit will drain the power source battery.