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Tag-Connect, LLC

Tag-Connect TC2030-PKT 6-Pin Programming Cable for PICkit

Tag-Connect TC2030-PKT 6-Pin Programming Cable for PICkit

Professional 6-pin pogo pin programming cable for reliable ICSP connectivity with PICkit programmers.

SKU: TC2030-PKT

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Key Features

Ultra-compact 0.02 sq inch PCB footprint
Secure plastic leg retention system
Spring-loaded pogo pins rated 100,000+ cycles
Direct PICkit 3/4/5 compatibility
Eliminates programming connector BOM costs
Connects PICkit ICSP signals
Flexible PCB placement options

Overview

The Tag Connect TC2030-PKT represents a breakthrough in microcontroller programming connectivity, eliminating bulky RJ12 connectors whilst maintaining professional-grade reliability. This legged version provides secure mechanical retention during extended debugging sessions, making it ideal for development environments. Compatible with the complete range of Microchip PICkit programmers including PICkit 3, 4, and 5, the cable supports all standard ICSP programming modes. The tiny PCB footprint saves valuable board space and reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for programming headers.
The TC2030-PKT terminates in a 6-pin 0.1" SIP connector that plugs directly into your PICkit programmer. Spring-loaded pogo pins ensure consistent electrical contact whilst the precision-moulded plastic legs provide reliable mechanical positioning.
Professional engineers choose Tag Connect solutions for their proven reliability in both prototyping and production environments. The footprint can be positioned anywhere on your PCB—even underneath components—providing unprecedented design flexibility compared to traditional edge-mounted programming connectors. For applications requiring an even smaller footprint, see our TC2030-PKT-NL no-legs variant or explore our complete range of Tag Connect programming solutions.

Downloads

Space-Critical Designs

Tiny footprint enables programming on miniature PCBs where connectors won't fit

Development Efficiency

Secure legs maintain connection during extended debugging without hand-holding

Cost Reduction

Eliminates programming connector costs and assembly time on every production board

Professional Microcontroller Programming Solution

The Tag Connect TC2030-PKT is a professional-grade 6-pin pogo pin programming cable specifically designed for use with Microchip PICkit 3, 4, and 5 programmers. This innovative cable eliminates the need for permanent programming connectors on your PCB whilst providing reliable ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) connectivity.

Ultra-Compact PCB Footprint

The TC2030-PKT requires only a tiny 0.02 square inch footprint on your PCB—approximately the same space as an 0805 resistor. This miniature footprint includes six contact pads (0.5mm pitch) and four alignment holes for secure positioning.

Secure Connection with Plastic Legs

Four precision-moulded plastic legs clip securely into dedicated PCB holes, maintaining firm mechanical connection during extended debugging sessions. The spring-loaded pogo pins ensure reliable electrical contact rated for over 100,000 connection cycles.

Wiring Quick-Start

TC2030 Pin PICkit Pin Signal Function
1 2 VDD Target Power (3.3V/5V)
2 4 PGD Programming Data (ICSPDAT)
3 1 MCLR Master Clear/VPP
4 5 PGC Programming Clock (ICSPCLK)
5 3 GND Ground Reference
6 6 NC No Connection/AUX

PCB Design Guidelines

Critical: Ensure no solder paste is applied to contact pads. Set paste mask layer to zero for all TC2030 pads in your CAD software. Maintain 0.020" clearance around contact pads for optimal connection reliability.
// Example PIC configuration for ICSP #pragma config MCLRE = ON // MCLR pin enabled #pragma config WDTE = OFF // Watchdog timer disabled #pragma config PWRTE = ON // Power-up timer enabled #pragma config FOSC = INTRC_NOCLKOUT // Internal RC oscillator 

Production vs Development Use

The legged TC2030-PKT version excels in development environments where sustained connections are required for debugging, single-stepping, and real-time variable monitoring. For high-volume production programming, consider the TC2030-PKT-NL (no legs) variant for faster operation.

Which cable fits your debugger? See our Tag-Connect cable guide.

Engineer Q&A

Questions and Answers

10 questions
  • Does the TC2030-PKT Require External Power During Programming?

    Tag-Connect does not specify target power for this cable. The PICkit can supply limited target power on its VDD pin (see Microchip's PICkit user guide for the current limit); otherwise power the target externally.

    External power can also be used during debugging if your application needs it.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • What Microcontroller Families Are Supported?

    The TC2030-PKT is for Microchip PIC, dsPIC and PIC32 devices programmed over the standard 6-pin ICSP connection, which spans 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit families.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • Can I Use the TC2030-PKT for Debugging as Well as Programming?

    Yes. Tag-Connect describes the TC2030-PKT as a programming and debugging cable for the PICkit.

    Features such as breakpoints, single-stepping and variable monitoring come from the PICkit debugger and your software, not from the cable.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • How Do I Ensure Proper Pin 1 Orientation When Connecting?

    The footprint's alignment holes are asymmetric (one to the left of the pads, two to the right), so the plug only fits one way round.

    Pin 1 marking on the silkscreen depends on your layout, so we recommend adding it.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • Are There Alternatives for Other Programmer Brands Besides PICkit?

    Yes. Tag-Connect makes cables for many programmers; its debugger cable-selection pages list the cable for each one.

    Programmer typeCable
    Microchip PICkitTC2030-PKT
    ARM Cortex debuggersTC2030-CTX series
    Generic use with a ribbon connectorTC2030-IDC
    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • How Many Programming Cycles Can the TC2030-PKT Handle?

    Tag-Connect's cycle testing shows the spring pins last well over 100,000 operations; the ribbon cable usually wears out first. That suits both development and high-volume production programming.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • What's the Difference Between TC2030-PKT and TC2030-PKT-NL Versions?

    The TC2030-PKT has four plastic legs that clip into PCB holes; the TC2030-PKT-NL has no legs and a smaller footprint, and is held by hand, which suits production.

    TC2030-PKTTC2030-PKT-NL
    RetentionFour legs clip into holesHeld by hand
    FootprintStandardEven smaller
    Suited toDebuggingProduction programming
    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • Which PICkit Models Are Compatible with the TC2030-PKT?

    Tag-Connect lists the TC2030-PKT for PICkit 3, PICkit 4 and PICkit 5. It ends in a 6-pin 0.1" male SIP strip that plugs into the programmer's ICSP header. See our guides for the PICkit 3 and PICkit 4.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • What PCB Design Considerations Are Required for the TC2030 Footprint?

    The footprint needs six contact pads, three alignment holes and, for the legged cable, four leg holes.

    • no solder paste on the contact pads
    • 0.020 in clearance around the pads
    • the paste mask layer set up correctly in your CAD software
    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026
  • Can the TC2030 Footprint Be Placed on the Bottom of the PCB?

    Yes. The TC2030 footprint can go on either side of the PCB. Bottom placement helps in space-constrained designs with dense top-side components.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 9 Oct 2026

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