Explorer 16/32 allows the evaluation of the 16bit PIC24, dsPIC33 and 32-bit PIC32 families through PIMs for easy device swapping.

“It facilitates prototyping of the end application for proof of concept before migrating to the actual design,” said the firm. “The board features a mikroBUS interface to easily add new functionalities using Click Boards from MikroElectronika.”

An integrated USB connector supports both power and communication, eliminating the need for an external power adaptor.

Also integrated is a programmer/debugger.

PICtail Plus cards appear to be handles slightly differently than on the older board. They are “interfaced via a side PICtail Plus connector,” said Microchip. “The PICtail Plus daughter cards interfaced via a vertical connector can be re-used using the additional PICtail Plus Expansion Board (AC240100)” which also takes additional mikroBUS interfaces and has a small prototyping area.

Explorer 16/32 Development Kit (DM240001-3) includes:

• the main Explorer 16/32 Development Board
• a PIC24FJ1024GB610 PIM with 1Mbyte flash.
• two USB cables

PIC24FJ1024GB610 is the super-set microcontroller of the lower power PIC24F family, said the firm, with all memory options and function ooptions.

There is also a cheaper option (DM240001-2) for people who already have a PIM and USB cables.