Why do I get "Target device was not found ..." ?

Why do I get "Target device was not found (could not detect target voltage VDD). You must connect to a target device to use ICD3."?

The most common reasons are that the MCU is not powered, properly selected by the IDE, or physically connected to ICSP. The following are steps you may find useful:

  • Open "Flash MCU Programming Specification" and check the necessary pins to connect then verify the pin connections.
  • Ensure you have a 4.7 KΩ pull-up on MCLR.
  • If you wish to power the MCU from the HW tool make sure your Project configuration is set to power the target.
  • Check the configuration bits (internal OSC, MCLR on, etc.).
  • Verify the physical condition of the connector on your programmer.
  • Make sure that the MPLAB® X IDE project is configured to use the same MCU that is in the circuit.

  Return to Top

© 2024 Microchip Technology, Inc.
Notice: ARM and Cortex are the registered trademarks of ARM Limited in the EU and other countries.
Information contained on this site regarding device applications and the like is provided only for your convenience and may be superseded by updates. It is your responsibility to ensure that your application meets with your specifications. MICROCHIP MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WRITTEN OR ORAL, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, RELATED TO THE INFORMATION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ITS CONDITION, QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PURPOSE. Microchip disclaims all liability arising from this information and its use. Use of Microchip devices in life support and/or safety applications is entirely at the buyer's risk, and the buyer agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Microchip from any and all damages, claims, suits, or expenses resulting from such use. No licenses are conveyed, implicitly or otherwise, under any Microchip intellectual property rights.