As we launch the newest version of our popular MPLAB® X IDE, support for some of the older development tools will be discontinued. We're here to answer some of your questions.
Overview
Microchip Technology understands that its customers often require a long product lifecycle. As such, the company keeps its tools in production for as long as reasonably feasible, even as newer and more cost-effective options become available. There are times, however, when product obsolescence (End of Life or EOL) cannot be avoided.
As we launch the newest version of our popular MPLAB® X IDE this fall, some of the older development tools will no longer be supported in the integrated development environment. Specifically, MPLAB X IDE v6.25 will not be compatible with the long obsolete MPLAB PICKit™ 3 in-circuit debugger, MPLAB ICD 3 in-circuit debugger and MPLAB REAL ICE™ in-circuit emulators, which have been on the EOL list for several years. It is still possible to use these older tools on prior versions of MPLAB X IDE, including the current v6.20, and these versions will still be available on our archives page. However, customers using outdated versions of MPLAB X IDE will not be able to access the new features or security updates in the future releases, starting with v6.25 of the IDE.
Questions and Answers
What is the reason for discontinuing support for some of the older tools?
We are discontinuing support for these older tools to ensure customers have the best possible experience with their products. This includes access to the latest features, performance improvements and important security updates. Recent performance improvements to MPLAB X IDE reduce build time and programming/debugging time. The best way to take advantage of these performance improvements, and improve design flow, is by upgrading to the latest tools with the MPLAB PICkit™ 5 in-circuit debugger, MPLAB ICD 5 as well as the MPLAB ICE 4.
While the older versions still work, someone using an older version of the IDE like v6.00 or v6.05 could see a massive improvement to their whole operation if they update their process.
Which tools will no longer be supported and how will this affect a customer’s current operations?
Older tools, specifically the MPLAB PICkit 3 in-circuit debugger, MPLAB ICD 3 and MPLAB REAL ICE in-circuit emulators, will no longer be supported in future releases of MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB IPE, starting with version 6.25. It is still possible to use these older tools on prior versions of MPLAB X IDE, including the current v6.20, which are easily available on our archives page. That said, customers working with outdated versions of MPLAB X IDE will not be able to access new features, security updates, performance improvements or added tools present in the latest releases of the IDE.
What alternatives or upgrades are available to replace the older tools that are going away?
Upgrading to the latest debugging and programming tools like the MPLAB ICD 5 or MPLAB PICkit 5 in-circuit debuggerwill ensure continued support from Microchip and functionality within the latest versions of the MPLAB integrated development environment.
Can I still use the older tools on prior versions of MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB IPE?
Yes, it is still possible to use the older tools on prior versions, up to and including MPLAB X IDE v6.20 where they were already supported. These versions are also available on the archives page. However, by using an archived version, you will not be able to access new or future features/tools present in the latest releases.
How can I get assistance during the transition from the older tools to the new ones?
If you have any questions or concerns, you can open a ticket in Microchip’s Client Succes Portal.
What if a customer doesn’t want to change? Will their stuff break?
If they don’t want anything to change, or to upgrade to new tools, they can stick with MPLAB X IDE v6.20 and the legacy tools will still work. They will miss out on new features but there will not be a disruption in current functionality.
What if a customer wants to switch to the new version of MPLAB X IDE but they are using legacy tools?
They will have to update the physical tools they are using to the new MPLAB PICkit 5 in-circuit debugger or MPLAB ICD 5 in-circuit debuggers/programmers.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your Microchip tools, visit the support website and connect with one of Microchip’s Corporate Applications Engineers (CAEs) and Support Engagement Engineers (SEEs).
Liam Sheard, Apr 9, 2024
Tags/Keywords: Development Tools
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