Microchip announced the PICkit 2 Starter Kit. It  connects to any personal computer via full-speed USB 2.0. The PICkit 2 has a purchase price that starts at $34.99, and a set of easy-to-understand tutorials that allow users to learn at their own pace. In addition, the PICkit 2 has a small form factor that takes up minimal workbench space and can easily plug into development boards via In Circuit Serial Programming technology.

The PICkit 2 Microcontroller Programmer (PG164120) is expected to be available in August for $34.99, and comes with the programmer and a USB cable. The PICkit 2 Starter Kit (DV164120) is also planned for August for $49.99, and includes the programmer, USB cable, CDs and an 8/14/20-pin evaluation board. Initially, the programmer supports 33 low pin count, Flash PIC microcontrollers.