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The PICkit 3 is a popular in-circuit debugger and programmer designed by Microchip Technology for use with their PIC microcontrollers. It offers a range of features for programming and debugging PIC microcontrollers and is commonly used in both development and educational settings.

Key Features:

1. Programming and Debugging:

   • In-Circuit Debugging: Allows developers to debug their code directly on the target PIC microcontroller. It supports breakpoints, single-stepping, and variable monitoring.
   • In-Circuit Programming: Can program the PIC microcontroller directly in the circuit, eliminating the need to remove the chip from the board.

2. Supported Devices:

   • Microcontrollers: Compatible with a wide range of Microchip PIC microcontrollers, including PIC10, PIC12, PIC16, PIC18, PIC24, and dsPIC families. Compatibility varies depending on the version of the PICkit 3 firmware and software.

3. Connectivity:

   • Interface: Connects to the target microcontroller via a 6-pin or 5-pin ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) connector.
   • Computer Interface: Connects to a PC via USB, allowing for programming and debugging through Microchip’s software tools.

4. Software Support:

   • MPLAB X IDE: Works seamlessly with MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE), which provides tools for writing, compiling, and debugging code for PIC microcontrollers.
   • MPLAB IPE (Integrated Programming Environment): Provides a simplified interface for programming PIC microcontrollers.

5. Power Supply:

   • Power Source: The PICkit 3 is powered through the USB connection to the computer. It can also provide power to the target circuit if required, depending on the configuration.

6. LED Indicators:

   • Status LEDs: The device includes LEDs that indicate power status, communication with the PC, and programming/debugging status.

Components and Connections:

1. PICkit 3 Unit:

   • USB Connector: For connecting to a PC.
   • ICSP Connector: A 6-pin or 5-pin connector used to interface with the target PIC microcontroller.

2. Target Microcontroller:

   • ICSP Pins: The target microcontroller is connected to the PICkit 3 via the ICSP pins, which include VPP (Programming Voltage), VDD (Power), GND (Ground), PGD (Data), and PGC (Clock).

3. Software:

   • MPLAB X IDE: Provides an environment for code development, debugging, and programming.
   • MPLAB IPE: A simplified tool for direct programming without the need for a full IDE.

How to Use the PICkit 3:

1. Setup:

   • Connect the PICkit 3: Plug the PICkit 3 into a USB port on your computer.
   • Connect to Target: Attach the ICSP connector to the target microcontroller's programming header.

2. Software Installation:

   • Install MPLAB X IDE or MPLAB IPE: Download and install the appropriate software from the Microchip website.

3. Programming:

   • Open MPLAB X IDE or MPLAB IPE: Load your project or hex file.
   • Configure Device: Select the target PIC microcontroller from the software’s device list.
   • Program the Microcontroller: Use the software to program the microcontroller with your compiled code.

4. Debugging:

   • Set Breakpoints and Debug: Use the MPLAB X IDE to set breakpoints, step through code, and monitor variables for debugging purposes.

// Define the analog pin where the Sharp sensor is connected
#define SHARP_SENSOR_PIN A0

void setup() {
  // Start serial communication for debugging
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the raw analog value from the Sharp sensor (0 to 1023)
  int sensorValue = analogRead(SHARP_SENSOR_PIN);
  
  // Convert the sensor value to voltage (0 to 5V)
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);

  // Calculate the distance in cm (using the Sharp sensor's formula)
  // For GP2Y0A21YK0F, the distance is calculated as:
  // Distance = (27.86 * pow(sensorValue, -1.10))
  // This is an empirical formula based on datasheet values

  // If using a different sensor, adjust the formula accordingly.
  float distance = (27.86 * pow(sensorValue, -1.10));
  
  // Print the raw sensor value, voltage, and calculated distance
  Serial.print("Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.print(sensorValue);
  Serial.print(" Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.print("V Distance: ");
  Serial.print(distance);
  Serial.println(" cm");

  // Add a delay for better readability of output
  delay(500);
}