1.2.1 Programming Tool Errors

Sometimes errors may occur even before communication with the microcontroller begins. When a tool error is indicated, there are a few possible things to try.

First, retry the operation to verify this was not a one-off glitch. If the issue persists, try restarting MPLAB X IDE/IPE. In some cases, a full computer restart is needed, due to a thread/process crash behind the scenes.

Next, check for updates to the Device File Pack (DFP), Tool Pack, and MPLAB X Plugins. The DFP and Tool Pack updates can be accessed from Tools → Packs while MPLAB X IDE plugin updates can be accessed from Tools → Plugins.

Tip: New projects default to the newest tool pack version installed. However, in Project Properties → <Programmer/Debugger> → Tool Pack Selection, a specific version can be set instead. This is only necessary if there is a known issue with the latest version.

Finally, in extraordinarily rare cases, a new version of the IDE/IPE or compiler may be required. New versions of MPLAB X IDE/IPE and MPLAB XC8 Compiler are available at the links.

Note: For DFP or Compiler changes, the updated versions must be selected under Project Properties.