Microchip Technology TPG100005

Overview

TPG100005 from Softlog is a production-grade 4-channel ICSP GANG programmer for 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers and serial EEPROMs, supporting simultaneous programming with programmable Vdd (2.0–5.5 V), Vpp (2.0–13.5 V), inter-voltage delay (0.1–250 ms), clock/data speed (500 kHz–2.5 MHz), and 250 mA Vdd drive per channel.

For engineers reviewing the TPG100005 datasheet, TPG100005 pinout, TPG100005 application, or TPG100005 equivalent, key selection considerations include standalone/PC-hosted operation mode, per-channel 1 MB on-board flash memory, MPLAB® IDE plug-in integration, and expandability from 4 to 64 channels in production line setups.

Technical Context

The TPG100005 implements parallel ICSP programming across four independent channels, each with isolated voltage regulation and timing control. It supports both in-circuit and socket-based programming of legacy and current 8-bit PIC MCUs using standard ICSP protocol signals (PGC, PGD, Vpp, Vdd, Vss, MCLR).

Each channel integrates dedicated 1 MB flash memory for firmware and program image storage, enabling offline batch programming without host PC intervention. Voltage and timing parameters are individually configurable per channel via software interface or front-panel controls when operating standalone.

Key Specifications

Availability

TPG100005 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-volume PIC MCU programming, serial EEPROM production programming, and factory floor ICSP gang programming requiring stable component supply and repeatable process control.

Supply support for TPG100005 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

Softlog is a Microchip-authorized third-party tools provider specializing in production-grade programming, debugging, and test solutions for PIC® and dsPIC® devices.

The TPG100005 belongs to Softlog's ICP2GANG product line, engineered specifically for cost-effective, scalable, and reliable in-circuit serial programming in manufacturing environments.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TPG100005?

The TPG100005 is a 4-channel ICSP GANG programmer designed to simultaneously program multiple 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers and serial EEPROMs in production environments. It operates either as a standalone unit or under PC control via USB, and supports full integration with MPLAB® IDE through a dedicated plug-in. The TPG100005 delivers repeatable, high-throughput programming with per-channel voltage, timing, and memory control - making it a core tool for manufacturing test and burn-in workflows.

Does the TPG100005 support standalone operation without a PC?

Yes, the TPG100005 supports fully autonomous standalone operation. Each of its four channels has 1 MB of on-board flash memory to store program images and configuration settings, allowing batch programming without continuous PC connection. Front-panel controls and status LEDs enable operator monitoring and manual trigger execution. The TPG100005 retains all programmable parameters - including Vdd, Vpp, delay, and clock speed - in nonvolatile memory for consistent repeatability across shifts and production runs.

Which PIC microcontroller families are compatible with the TPG100005?

The TPG100005 is explicitly validated for 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers and serial EEPROMs using standard ICSP protocol. It supports devices requiring Vpp up to 13.5 V and Vdd down to 2.0 V, covering legacy PIC12/16/18 families and compatible serial memory parts. The TPG100005 does not support 16-bit dsPIC® DSCs or 32-bit PIC32 MCUs, as these require different programming interfaces and voltage profiles outside its design scope.

Can the TPG100005 be expanded beyond 4 channels?

Yes, the TPG100005 supports hardware expansion from 4 to up to 64 channels via daisy-chain configuration using dedicated expansion ports. This scalability allows incremental capacity growth without replacing existing units. Expansion requires compatible Softlog ICP2GANG expansion modules and matching firmware updates. The TPG100005 maintains synchronized timing and independent parameter control across all active channels during multi-unit operation.

How is the TPG100005 integrated with MPLAB® IDE?

The TPG100005 integrates with MPLAB® IDE through an official Softlog plug-in that adds native project-based programming support. Users can select the TPG100005 as a debug/program tool within the IDE, configure per-channel voltages and timing, and launch gang programming directly from the build environment. The plug-in handles automatic image distribution across channels and reports pass/fail status per device. This integration eliminates manual file transfers and scripting for the TPG100005 in development-to-production workflows.