Device Family Packs (DFPs)
DFPs are a way of packaging and distributing device-support files. They are essentially a structured directory of files that provide information related to each device family. Some of these files are compiler-related device-specific header files, configuration bit data, and libraries; other files relate to device information displayed by the IDE and algorithms the IDE uses to program and debug the device. The files are organized in each pack so that the tools know where to find the information they need. A DFP has a version number, just like the compilers and IDE, so that they can be identified.
Why Do They Exist?
DFPs were developed to de-couple new MCU product releases from IDE and compiler releases. Now, you do not need to upgrade your IDE or compiler to take advantage of new MCUs or updates to the device header files for a current MCU you are using.