The MPLAB PM3 Universal Device Programmer is easy to use and operates with a PC or as a stand-alone unit, and programs Microchip's entire line of PICmicro® devices as well as the latest dsPIC30F DSC devices. The MPLAB PM3 features a large and bright LCD unit (128x64 pixels) to display easy menus, programming statistics and status information. The MPLAB PM3 programmer has exceptional programming speed to allow high production throughput, especially important for large memory devices, and includes a Secure Digital/Multimedia Card slot for easy and secure data storage and transfer. The MPLAB PM3 programmer is designed with 40 programmable socket pins, allowing each socket module to be configured to support many different devices, requiring fewer socket modules to support the entire line of Microchip parts. The socket modules use multi-pin connectors for high reliability and quick interchange. An adapter allows current PROMATE®II socket modules to be used on the MPLAB PM3 programmer. When connected to a PC-host system either via a serial or USB port, the MPLAB PM3 programmer is seamlessly integrated with the MPLAB Integrated Development Environment (IDE) providing an exceptionally user-friendly interface for the ultimate control during programming. The MPLAB IDE includes a full-featured macro assembler, powerful software simulator with symbolic debugger, color-coded programmer's editor, project manager, high-level language and macro support, and other features.
The MPLAB PM3 Universal Device Programmer is a PC‑connected or stand‑alone unit that programs the entire line of Microchip PICmicro® and dsPIC30F devices. It features a large 128x64‑pixel LCD, 40 programmable socket pins, RS‑232/USB interfaces, and Secure Digital/Multimedia Card slots for data storage.
The manual describes key features such as three operating modes (PC Host, Safe, Standalone), field‑upgradeable firmware, buzzer notification, host system requirements, package contents, part numbers, ordering information, and supported development tools.
| LCD display | 128x64 pixels |
|---|---|
| Programmable socket pins | 40 |
| Interface | RS-232 or USB |
| External memory support | Secure Digital (SD) and Multimedia Card (MMC) |
| Operating modes | PC Host, Safe, Standalone |
| Firmware upgrade | Field upgradeable |
| Buzzer notification | Enabled for noisy environments |
| Host CPU requirement | Intel Pentium class or higher |
| Supported device families | All PICmicro® MCU and dsPIC30F devices |
The MPLAB PM3 supports both RS‑232 and USB connections.
The programmer provides 40 programmable socket pins.
It offers three modes: PC Host mode, Safe mode, and Standalone mode.
Secure Digital (SD) cards and Multimedia Card (MMC) cards are supported.