Trace Methods

Currently there are three instrumented trace methods. All are language-tool-version dependent, and stream data in real time to MPLAB X IDE. The pluses and minuses of using each trace method, as well as communication information, are summarized below.

Trace Method Speed Code Size Impact Real Time Op Pin Usage Device Feature Needed High Speed Communication
Native Trace Fast Large Close None Built-in debug Greater than 15 MIPS1
SPI Trace Faster Medium Closer SPI pins SPI Yes1
I/O Port Trace Fastest Small Closest 9 pins of Debug Connector None Yes2
  1. 1.The actual cutoff speed may vary depending on layout, noise, and similar considerations.
  2. 2.Requires connection from device port to emulator debug connector (8-pin port + 1 pin clock).