PIC32
18.2 Device Code Protection bit (CP)
18.3 Program Write Protection bits (PWP)
The PIC32 family of devices feature code protec-
tion, which when enabled, prevents reading of Flash
memory by an external programming device. Once
code protection is enabled, it can only be disabled
by erasing the device with the Chip Erase command
(MCHP_ERASE).
The PIC32 families of devices include write protection
features, which prevent designated boot and program
Flash regions from being erased or written during
program execution.
In PIC32MX devices, write protection is implemented in
Configuration memory by the Device Configuration
Words, while in PIC32MZ EC devices, this feature is
implemented through Special Function Registers
(SFRs) in the Flash controller.
When programming a device that has opted to uti-
lize code protection, the programming device must
perform verification prior to enabling code protec-
tion. Enabling code protection should be the last step
of the programming process. Location of the code
protection enable bits vary by device. Refer to the
“Special Features” chapter in the specific device
data sheet for details.
When write protection is implemented by Device
Configuration Words, the write protection register
should only be written when all boot and program Flash
memory has been programmed. Refer to the “Special
Features” chapter in the specific device data sheet for
details.
Note:
Once code protection is enabled, the
Flash memory can no longer be read and
can only be disabled by an external pro-
grammer using the Chip Erase Command
(MCHP_ERASE).
If write protection is implemented using SFRs, certain
steps may be required during initialization of the device
by the external programmer prior to programming
Flash regions. Refer to the “Flash Program Memory”
chapter in the specific device data sheet for details.
DS61145L-page 54
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