Editing AVR microcontrollers (section)

=== AVRISP and AVRISP mkII ===
[[File:AVRISP_mkII.jpg|right|thumb|AVRISP mkII]]
The AVRISP and AVRISP mkII are inexpensive tools allowing all AVRs to be programmed via [[In-circuit serial programming|ICSP]].

The AVRISP connects to a PC via a serial port and draws power from the target system. The AVRISP allows using either of the "standard" ICSP pinouts, either the 10-pin or 6-pin connector.

The AVRISP mkII connects to a PC via USB and draws power from USB. [[Light-emitting diode|LEDs]] visible through the translucent case indicate the state of target power.

As the AVRISP mkII lacks driver/buffer ICs,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.takeitapart.com/guide/96|title=AVRISP mkII Disassembled|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108061205/https://www.takeitapart.com/guide/96|archive-date=2014-11-08|access-date=2014-11-08}}</ref> it can have trouble programming target boards with multiple loads on its SPI lines. In such occurrences, a programmer capable of sourcing greater current is required. Alternatively, the AVRISP mkII can still be used if low-value (~150 ohm) load-limiting resistors can be placed on the SPI lines before each peripheral device.

Both the AVRISP and the AVRISP mkII are now discontinued, with product pages removed from the Microchip website. As of July 2019 the AVRISP mkII is still in stock at a number of distributors. There are also a number of 3rd party clones available.