3.3.3 If MPLAB IDE v8 is Installed on Your System

If MPLAB IDE v8 or earlier is already installed on your computer, you may need to run the MPLAB Device Driver Switcher to switch from MPLAB IDE v8 drivers to MPLAB X IDE drivers.

To determine which drivers are associated with the your tool:

1. Plug your desired tool into the USB connector on your personal computer.
2. Open the computer’s Device Manager window.
   1. For MPLAB IDE v8, the driver should be under Custom USB Device > Microchip Custom USB Device.
   2. For MPLAB X IDE, the driver should be under Microchip Tools > Microchip WinUSB Device.
3. If you have an MPLAB IDE v8 driver, you will need to use the Switcher to switch to the MPLAB X IDE drivers.

To switch to MPLAB X IDE preinstalled drivers:

1. If You Have Windows XP 64, Manually Switch
2. If You Have Windows 7 or 8, Use Administrator Mode
3. Switch USB Device Drivers (for Hardware Tools)

If the Switcher fails to switch the drivers, see:

1. If You Need to Manually Switch the Drivers
2. Tool Communication Issues