Since the MCSK uses a programmable dsPIC33F digital signal controller, some sort of programmer and debugger is necessary. The MCSK includes a USB programmer and debugger built right onto the underside of the board. This programmer and debugger has the equivalent performance and the exact functionality of a PICkit 3 programmer and debugger from Microchip. The onboard USB programmer and debugger is fully compatible with Microchip’s MPLAB IDE.