Reviews for Programming 16-Bit PIC Microcontrollers in C: Learning to Fly the PIC 24 (Embedded Technology)

1. Good overview, useful examples, sound basis to further learning

   Rated 4 out of 5 stars, February 12th, 2010

   This is a good general introduction which will quickly get you into the changes from 8bit to 16bit PIC devices. Sometimes left me wanting for more detail, but that is often the way with such a general book.
   
   Highly recommended for the newcomer wanting an easy introduction. Examples are good and useful in real life and well written once you just accept the "flight" analogy.
   
   Good grounding but will have you wanting more when you get into real product development - but then, there are other books covering such detail.
   
   Give it a go, surprisingly easy reading - I even took it with me travelling.
   

2. Excellent introduction to the PIC24 and C.

   Rated 5 out of 5 stars, April 12th, 2009

   As the author states he starts off at a reasonably basic level then builds up to quite an advanced level. It's worth pointing out that the examples can be ported over to for example the dsPIC family without too much difficulty although it's essential to study the differences between the devices carefully and modify any relevant code. This is what the book is good for, it actually encourages you to experiment and learn at the same time. I would however say that unless you are a proficient "C" programmer then a good "C" reference book is essential - K&R 2nd edition is good.
   All in all an excellent book.

3. Tight and distracted.

   Rated 1 out of 5 stars, November 12th, 2008

   Any book about PIC's that eschews circuit diagrams is a loser. The programmed examples are solid and well considered but Di Jasio has let his readers down with a unapplied examples, dollops of theory and a rambling chapter on something called the 'The Dark Screen'. Pointless.
   
   His 'flight' metaphors eventually become annoying especially when they occupy each chapter's bibliography. There's far more to be learnt from a well specified C compiler - especially if you are involved with real-world data acquisition.
   
   A nice text book to own but no immediate productivity here.

4. Not for seasoned professionals

   Rated 2 out of 5 stars, October 12th, 2008

   I was handed this book when I took over a PIC24 project and I've learned to loath it. This is a great book if you're learning to program a microcontroller and that microcontroller happens to be a PIC. If, however, you've already programmed half a dozen microcontrollers then this isn't a reference book on the peculiarities of PIC programming.
   
   Good for hobbyists, poor for professionals.

5. Clear, concise, and pithy

   Rated 5 out of 5 stars, July 12th, 2008

   The text is clear, concise, and pithy; no waffling.
   
   Its very easy to follow, from basic concepts to driving an LCD, was very useful while at university, covers everything you will cover in an undergraduate course in embedded systems, and lots for the post graduate student.