K150 Pic Programmer Software Windows 10

The K150 uses a generic USB-to-serial bridge chip (often the Prolific PL2303 or a clone). Windows 10, especially versions 1607 and later, dropped support for older PL2303 drivers (pre-2012) due to stability and security issues. Consequently, Windows 10 may either not recognize the K150 or mark it with a "Code 10" or "Code 31" error in Device Manager.

Without correct drivers, none of the K150’s software (e.g., PICPGM, IC-PROG, or WinPIC800) will communicate with the programmer.

| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution | |--------|--------------|----------| | "Programmer not found" | Wrong COM port | In Device Manager, check which COM port the K150 uses (e.g., COM4). Set software to that port. | | "Device cannot start (Code 10)" | Windows blocked the driver | Reinstall driver v3.2.0.0 with driver signature enforcement disabled. | | Verification fails at address 0 | Power issue | The K150 draws power from USB. Use a powered USB hub if programming chips that require more current (like 16F877A). Also check your PIC’s oscillator settings. | | Erase works, but write fails | Voltage level problem | Some K150 clones have poor voltage regulation. Ensure you are not programming a chip already in a powered circuit. | | Software freezes on Windows 10 64-bit | 32-bit legacy software conflict | Switch to MCP software (64-bit compatible) or run PICPGM in Windows 7 compatibility mode (right-click → Properties → Compatibility). |

  • Load firmware/HEX file:
  • Erase/Blank check:
  • Program and verify:
  • Read/Backup:

    • The K150, when used with PonyProg (a universal EEPROM programmer) via the serial bridge mode, can program I2C EEPROMs. This is a hidden feature. Set PonyProg to use “Serial” and map to the CH340’s COM port. Do not use the K150’s PIC programming mode for this. k150 pic programmer software windows 10

    For a hassle-free experience on Windows 10:

    With the right software setup, the trusty K150 can continue to serve as a reliable workhorse for PIC development, even on a modern Windows 10 machine.

    Disclaimer: Always ensure you have legal rights to use any software or drivers. Modifying driver signature settings carries minor security risks; restore normal boot after programming. The K150 uses a generic USB-to-serial bridge chip

    The K150 is an older budget programmer that can be difficult to set up on modern operating systems because the original software is outdated and often requires specific drivers that Windows 10 tries to block.

    Here is a prepared piece outlining the necessary software, drivers, and configuration steps.

    The K150 ships with a mini-CD containing PICPGM 1.61 software and drivers designed for Windows 98/XP. On Windows 10: Load firmware/HEX file:

    Result: “USB device not recognized” or driver error code 10.

    Alex discovered that for frequent use on Windows 10, the Pickit 3 or TL866 programmer is more reliable. But for those committed to the K150, WinPIC800 + libusb-win32 on Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) works solidly.

    Many K150 units pretend to be a PICkit 2. Try: