Microchip Technology AC244007

Overview

AC244007 from Microchip Technology is a JTAG adaptor board enabling debug communication between the MPLAB REAL ICE In-Circuit Emulator and target hardware using the MIPS EJTAG 2.5 interface. It supports all PIC32MX microcontrollers, connects via a keyed 14-pin ribbon cable, and requires device erasure before initial JTAG mode activation.

For engineers reviewing the AC244007 datasheet, AC244007 pinout, AC244007 application, or AC244007 equivalent, this adaptor enables JTAG-based in-circuit debugging for PIC32MX devices within MPLAB X IDE 1.60+, with explicit setup steps for switching between Standard and JTAG communications modes.

Technical Context

The AC244007 implements a passive signal-routing interface between the MPLAB REAL ICE emulator pod and target boards equipped with a MIPS EJTAG 2.5 connector. It provides direct mapping of TRST_N, TDI, TDO, TMS, TCK, SRST_N, DINT, and VREF signals without level-shifting or protocol translation.

It operates exclusively as a mechanical and electrical bridge - no onboard logic, memory, or firmware. Compatibility is constrained to PIC32MX families and requires MPLAB X IDE configuration to select "JTAG Driver Board" in project properties.

Key Specifications

Availability

AC244007 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for embedded development, PIC32MX-based prototyping, and production-level firmware validation requiring stable component supply and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for AC244007 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and development tools for embedded control applications.

The AC244007 belongs to Microchip's MPLAB REAL ICE emulator accessory product line, designed specifically to extend JTAG debug capability to PIC32MX targets within the MPLAB X IDE ecosystem.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AC244007?

The AC244007 is a passive JTAG adaptor board that establishes a physical and electrical connection between the MPLAB REAL ICE emulator and PIC32MX target boards using the MIPS EJTAG 2.5 interface. It does not contain active circuitry - its role is strictly signal routing for debug communication, and it requires explicit IDE configuration to activate JTAG mode in MPLAB X IDE.

Which Microchip devices are supported by the AC244007?

The AC244007 is explicitly documented to support all Microchip PIC32MX microcontrollers. It is not validated for PIC32MZ, dsPIC33, SAM, AVR, or non-Microchip targets. Support is limited to devices with a compatible MIPS EJTAG 2.5 connector and firmware that enables JTAG debug access.

Does the AC244007 require firmware or drivers?

No - the AC244007 contains no firmware, programmable logic, or onboard intelligence. It relies entirely on the MPLAB REAL ICE emulator's native JTAG functionality and MPLAB X IDE v1.60+ software configuration. No separate driver installation is needed beyond standard MPLAB REAL ICE USB drivers.

Why must the target device be erased before switching to JTAG mode with the AC244007?

Erase is required because PIC32MX devices lock certain debug resources (e.g., JTAGEN fuse state, security bits) after programming. Erasing clears these locks and re-enables JTAG access. This is a hardware-level requirement of the PIC32MX silicon, not a limitation of the AC244007 itself.

Can the AC244007 be used with development boards other than Explorer 16?

Yes - the AC244007 works with any target board featuring a standard MIPS EJTAG 2.5 14-pin header aligned with Microchip's pinout definition (TRST_N, TDI, TDO, TMS, TCK, SRST_N, DINT, VREF, GNDs). Mechanical compatibility depends on keyed connector alignment and signal mapping fidelity.