AxMate-MS Programming Adapter
The AxMate-MS programming adapter is specifically designed to minimize the breadboard connections needed to program all current PICAXE 8-, 14-, and 20-pin processors. In this respect, the AxMate-MS is similar to the Prog-03 programming adapter. However, unlike the Prog-03, the AxMate-MS does not require a separate power supply because it directly connects to the power and ground pins on the FTDI 5V Cable (Sparkfun.com, sku: DEV-09718) or the Sparkfun FTDI Basic Breakout Board (Sparkfun.com, sku:DEV-09115). The relevant details are discussed in the documentation for the other AxMate programming adapters this site, and in the June 2010 Nuts & Volts PICAXE Primer column.
Of course, the AxMate-MS can also easily be used to program other PICAXE processors as well. All that's needed is jumper wire connections to the processor's Serial In and Serial Out pins.
The following photo shows a complete "Hello World" circuit implemented with the AxMate-MS adapter and a PICAXE-14M processor. As you can see, the required connections are minimal. The AxMate-MS directly connects to the 14M's Serial Out and Ground Pins, and also includes connections to the breadboard's upper power and ground rails via 2-pin headers near both ends of the AxMate-MS power switch.
The jumpers at the left edge of the breadboard connect the upper Power and Ground lines with the corresponding lines in the bottom power rail. Only three additional jumpers are required for the complete circuit; one is needed to connect the processor's +V pin to the breadboard's power rail, and two are needed to connect the processor's Serial In pin to the corresponding AxMate-MS pin. All the required connections are exactly the same for any PICAXE 9-, 14, or 20-pin processor.
There are three important points to note about using the AxMate-MS programming adapter:
First: The AxMate-MS requires that the power and ground connections in the power rails are offset from (i.e., not in line with) the rows of connections in the main portion of the breadboard. All 400-point breadboards that I have seen are constructed this way. However, larger breadboards are not, and therefore cannot be used with the AxMate-MS adapter.
Second: The breadboard must be oriented as shown in the above photo (i.e., with its power rails below its ground rails). Because the AxMate-MS directly connects to the breadboard's upper power and ground rails, reversing the correct breadboard orientation will result in the +5V and ground connections also being reversed, which can possibly damage or destroy the PICAXE processor. (Also, note the small "+" and "-" symbols that are included on the AxMate-MS board as a reminder of the correct power and ground connections.) Third: If you want to run a program without the AxMate-MS being connected, it's necessary to re-establish the ground connection for the PICAXE processor, and to tie the processor's Serial In line to ground, e.g., with a 100k resistor. (Of course, it's also necessary to supply power to the breadboard!)AxMate-MS bare PC boards are now available: $1.95 each
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