Shift away from legacy MPLAB 8 software. Download the latest version of MPLAB X , which features better code intelligence, modern compiler integration, and built-in debugging tools. Legal and Safe Ways to Access the Material
Myke Predko Original Publication: Approximately 2005 (McGraw-Hill/TAB Electronics)
The Evil Genius series, published by McGraw-Hill/TAB Electronics, is a well-regarded collection known for its practical, project-focused approach to learning electronics. Building on the success of its predecessor, 123 Robotics Experiments for the Evil Genius , Myke Predko's PIC-focused entry applies the same successful formula to the popular Microchip PIC microcontroller. The goal is to combine an entertaining, accessible format with the in-depth, technical following of the microcontroller community.
Please note that some sources may require registration, subscription, or payment to access the PDF. Shift away from legacy MPLAB 8 software
The 2021 PDF format includes all original schematics and code listings, making it easy to search for specific components, such as the PIC16F84A on Microchip's website.
123 PIC Microcontroller Experiments for the Evil Genius is a landmark text in the embedded systems world. Its project-driven, step-by-step methodology has launched countless hobbyists and engineers into the field. While its hardware and software are undeniably dated, its core pedagogical value remains as potent as ever. For someone who is serious about building a deep, fundamental understanding of how microcontrollers work at the bare metal level, this book is still a fantastic resource.
Each experiment and project is designed to illustrate a specific concept or technique, with clear instructions, diagrams, and code examples. Building on the success of its predecessor, 123
The 2021 edition of “123 PIC Microcontroller Experiments for the Evil Genius” is here. We review the projects, the PDF availability, and why this classic series remains the best hands-on guide for learning embedded systems.
: Install the XC8 Compiler to write your code in standard C rather than complex assembly language.
: Building reusable code blocks for interrupts, communication protocols, and sensor math. The 2021 PDF format includes all original schematics
The first experiment, "LED Blink", was a simple one. Dr. Vortex connected an LED to a breadboard, wrote a few lines of code, and uploaded it to the PIC microcontroller. The LED began to blink ominously, a sign that Dr. Vortex was on his way to creating a device that would soon shake the foundations of the world.
Here is why it remains a great learning tool, and where it falls short.