PIC microcontrollers ( Programmable Interface Controllers), are electronic circuits that can be programmed to carry out a vast range of tasks. They can be programmed to be timers or to control a production line and much more. They are found in most electronic devices such as alarm systems, computer control systems, phones, in fact almost any electronic device. Many types of PIC microcontrollers exist, although the best are probably found in the GENIE range of programmable microcontrollers. These are programmed and simulated by Circuit Wizard software.
PIC Microcontrollers are relatively cheap and can be bought as pre-built circuits or as kits that can be assembled by the user
When the program has been simulated and works, it is downloaded to the PIC microcontroller circuit. The USB lead can be disconnected and the microcontroller circuit can be used independently. The diagram below, shows a GENIE Project Board being programmed by Circuit Wizard software (recommended software for programming microcontroller circuits).