|
Programming isn't all that difficult, especially the PICs. Any prior experience with programming such as microcontrollers, microprocessors or even 'C' etc makes it even easier. It is logical and fun, hence anyone with enough interest should be able to tackle it.
Provided you have the programmer set up and are using the exact same chip as mentioned in the original article, then programming the chip is as easy as "copy and paste". But that isn't often the case, and that is why you might be required to know how to write the program yourself.
For example, Mr. Koichi's circuit uses the chip PIC12C509A which is an EPROM based device meaning it can be programmed only once. I prefer devices such as 12F625 which are EEPROM based, and can be re-programmed. Even though these chips are very much similar to each other, the hex file generated for 12C509 may not work on 12F625 without some minor modifications. In an ideal situation, you will need to have the source code of the program in assembly language (.ASM file as opposed to .HEX file), make a few changes as required and generate your own .hex file.
If you have the slighest interest in programming these chips, there is absolutely no reason for not doing it.
|