PIC32MZ EF SK - faster programming with MPLAB SNAP

One of the minor annoyances with switching to MPLAB X v5 from v4 is that the programming time for the projects seemed to double. From about 45 seconds to almost 2 minutes.

But v5 MPLAB X supports the new low cost MPLAB SNAP programmer from Microchip. That can program the PIC32MZ EF SK (for my project) in about 17 seconds!

Digikey price is $14.95US: https://www.microchip.com/Developmenttools/ProductDetails/PG164100




To use with the PIC32MZ EF Starter Kit you'll want an adapter that can plug into the 0.05" spacing of the ICSP debug header. See the Olimex adapter for $5 from Digikey: https://www.digikey.ca/product-detail/en/olimex-ltd/PIC-ICSP/1188-1068-ND/3471409





To use with the PIC32MZ EF Curiosity you'll need to add the ICSP debug header. Also, the headers are needed for the Olimex kit. Digikey sells the Microchip TPROG001 cable with headers for $4US: https://www.microchipdirect.com/product/search/all/TPROG001



The SNAP programmer needs to be disconnected after programming to get the PIC32MZ board to reset. To make it easier to do that without stress on the ribbon cables I used two, and an extra header from the TPROG001 kit. With the six wire RJ6 plugs allowing for a simple to connect and disconnect point.







Notes:

1. The SNAP programmer does not provide power, you'll need to plug the board in (e.g. via USB Debug or USB Device.)
2. Remove the double header plug at location J2 (near the ICSP header on the PIC32MZ EF SK.)
3. The six-pin header needs to be plugged into the (looking at the SNAP with the black connector at the bottom) right-hand side of the 8 pin black edge connector. You'll see the small black triangle there.
4. Set the programming speed to Low (Properties / SNAP / Programming Options).
5. After programming disconnect the SNAP.