Microchip releases an early access version of the MPLAB extension for VS Code

     To take advantage of the versatility of Microsoft Visual Studio Code (VS Code), Microchip Technology has released an early access version of the MPLAB Extensions for VS Code. This release provides embedded designers with the tools to import projects from the MPLAB X Integrated development environment (IDE) to VS Code while still using Microchip's debugging and programming support. This move is part of Microchip's long-term strategy to expand its offerings and serve the VS Code ecosystem developers.

     MPLAB X IDE is a scalable, highly configurable software program that integrates powerful tools to help developers discover, configure, develop, debug, and authenticate embedded designs for most Microchip microcontrollers and digital signal controllers. The VS Code extension combines the power of the MPLAB X IDE with the flexibility of VS Code to create a more seamless and efficient development environment for new and existing customers. Released under the Early Access Program, these products quickly provide customers with the necessary tools while Microchip's development team continues to refine the expanded functionality based on user feedback.

     Rodger Richey, Microchip's vice president of development Systems and academic programs, said: "Microchip is committed to meeting the needs of developers in the environment they choose. VS Code is a very popular tool, and the recently launched MPLAB extension enables developers to continue working in the integrated development environment they are most familiar with, while taking full advantage of Microchip's complete device support and toolset. This convergence achieves the best combination of familiarity and functionality, and provides a convenient way for developers to integrate our resources and components."

     In early access releases, MPLAB extensions for VS Code included features such as MPLAB X IDE project import, as well as the ability to compile, program, and basic debug using any supported Microchip device. In addition, the MPLAB Data Visualizer is available in VS Code with an extension, giving users the opportunity to see how their devices are running.

     A future update will bring the MPLAB Code configurator to VS Code to help set up pre-configured items. In addition, development work has begun on a VS Code extension for the MPLAB machine learning development Kit and an MPLAB extension for AI-assisted code generation to review and improve code from within the integrated development environment.

     The release of MPLAB Extensions for VS Code marks a new phase in the accessibility and flexibility for developers to use Microchip's tools. This release is the first time MPLAB IDE software will be available outside the MPLAB development ecosystem, but it's just the beginning of Microchip's broader integration with the VS Code community. The current features are designed to meet the immediate needs of developers, and the future will continue to refine the toolset and introduce new extensions with more features.