In order to create code that is executable by the target PICmicro MCU, source files
need to be put into a project. The code can then be built into executable code using
selected language tools (assemblers, compilers, linkers, etc.). In MPLAB IDE, the
project manager controls this process.
All projects will have these basic steps:
The capabilities of MPLAB IDE vary according to which device is selected. Device
selection should be completed before starting a project.
MPLAB Project Wizard will be used to Create a Project.
•Select Language Tools
In the Project Wizard the language tools will be selected. For this tutorial, the
built-in assembler and linker will be used. For other projects one of the Microchip
compilers or other third party tools might be selected.
•Put Files in Project
Two files will be put into the project, a template file and a linker script. Both of
these exist in sub-folders within the MPLAB IDE folder. Using these two files it is
easy to get started.
• Create Code
Some code will be added to the template file to send an incrementing value out an
• Build Project
The project will be built – causing the source files to be assembled and linked into
machine code that can run on the selected PICmicro MCU.
• Test Code with Simulator
Finally, the code will be tested with the simulator.
The Project Wizard will easily guide us through most of these steps.