Preserve (Type of) Memory
Enabling this option will cause the current memory type on the device to be
read into MPLAB X IDE's memory and then reprogrammed back to the
target device when programming is done. Check to preserve
Memory
for
reprogramming, where
Memory
is the type of memory. Types include:
EEPROM, ID, Boot Flash, and Auxiliary. Ensure that code is NOT code
protected.
Preserve (Type of) Memory Range(s)
(hex)*
The range(s) of the memory type to be preserved. Each range must be two
hex numbers, representing the start and end addresses of the range,
separated by a dash. Ranges must be separated by a comma (for
example, 0-ff, 200-2ff). Areas are reserved by reading them into MPLAB X
IDE and then programming them back down when a program operation
occurs. Thus the preserved areas must lie within a memory range that will
be programmed.
Memory
is the type of memory, which includes EEPROM,
ID, Boot Flash, and Auxiliary. Ensure that code is NOT code protected.
* If you receive a programming error due to an incorrect range, ensure the range does not exceed available/
remaining device memory.
10.2.2
Debug
If this option is available for the project device, you can select to use software breakpoints.
Table 10-2. Debug Option Category
Use Software Breakpoints
Check to use software breakpoints. Uncheck to use hardware
breakpoints. See the following table to determine which type is best for
your application.
Table 10-3. Software vs. Hardware Breakpoints
Features
Software Breakpoints
Hardware Breakpoints
Number of breakpoints
Unlimited
Limited
Breakpoints are written to
Program Memory
Debug Registers
Time to set breakpoints
Oscillator Speed Dependent – can
take minutes
Minimal
Skidding
No
Yes
Note:
Using software breakpoints for debugging impacts device endurance. Therefore, it is recommended that
devices used in this manner not be used as production parts.
10.2.3
Program
Choose to erase all memory before programming or to merge code.
Table 10-4. Program Option Category
Erase All Before Program
Enabling this option will cause the entire device to be erased prior to
programming the data from MPLAB X IDE. Any memory areas designated to be
preserved will be read before the device is erased and reprogrammed on the
device when the device is programmed. Unless programming new or already
erased devices, it is important to have this box checked. If not checked, the
device is not erased and program code will be merged with the code already in
the device.
Debugger Function Summary
©
2020 Microchip Technology Inc.
User Guide
DS50002751D-page 52
