[quote author="BrentBXR"]So it seems the PIC used has some sort of crystal doubler system in it? run multiple instructions within one 'swing'? thats sweet.[/quote]
The PIC has a PLL (Phase-locked loop) inside that "generates" the 48MHz for the USB and also the clock for the CPU. On pages 121 and 128 of the Datasheet you can see a Clock Diagram of the PIC24FJ256GB106.
I've used the 3.3V microcontrollers connected directly (except the R/W pin) with 5V LCDs without any troubles. I don't know if that's a good practice, but worked for me.
HI Ian! I've read all the info about the bus pirate before programming it.
I didn't have any problem programming the PIC, the difficulty I've found was selecting which version of the firmware/boot-loader use, because almost every single reference about the boot-loader or the firmware is for people who already have the boot-loader installed in their bus pirate.
It would be great to have a link in the documentation page, like "building your own bus pirate" or something with the info you suggested (wiki with parts, shopping cart, etc.)!
I had almost the same problems you had when assembling mine! the FTDI chip is like a magnet for solder bridges! And selecting the firmware was a pain for me too, in the end I got it but there isn't any easy-to-follow guide people assembling their bus pirate.
I had problems with the voltages too, but after a few tests I replaced the 5v voltage regulator and it worked perfect.
I've just finished assemblying the Bus Pirate v3.5 free PCB I got a few moonths ago. Unfortunatelly mouser didn't have the ft232 chip in stock or I'd have finished sooner! I've also had a problem soldering the ft232 chip as my soldering iron temperature was set so high.
