Compatible Atmel AVR ISP mk2 MKII USB Programmer - Reliable AVR ISP

In this review the Compatible Atmel AVR ISP mk2 MKII USB programmer is assessed as a straightforward, no-frills in-system programmer for hobbyists and technicians working with AVR microcontrollers. The reviewer found the device most compelling for its broad device support and upgradability: it supports all AVR devices with ISP or PDI interfaces and can be updated to add future devices, which makes it useful for ongoing AVR development. The unit ships with firmware for AVR Studio 5 but can be updated to work with newer versions, so it is a practical choice for those who need a familiar AVRISP workflow.

Key Features

• Broad device support: Works with all AVR devices that use ISP or PDI interfaces, including XMEGA parts, which reduces the need for multiple programmers.
• Firmware upgradable: Delivered with firmware for AVR Studio 5 and can be updated to support newer AVR Studio versions or additional devices over time.
• Fuse and lock bit programming: Handles fuses and lock bits as well as Flash and EEPROM, so full device configuration is possible from one tool.
• Adjustable ISP speed: ISP programming speed is adjustable up to an 8M frequency, allowing tuning for slow or sensitive target boards.
• USB powered convenience: Powered from the USB bus with USB 2.0 compliance, so no external power supply is required for most programming tasks.

Who It's For

The Compatible Atmel AVR ISP mk2 MKII is best for electronics hobbyists, makers, and embedded firmware developers who work with a range of AVR microcontrollers and want a compact, bus-powered ISP programmer they can update as toolchains evolve. It is also useful in repair benches where quick Flash, EEPROM, fuse and lock bit programming are routine.

Those who need official vendor support contracts, factory calibration, or a guaranteed warranty from the original manufacturer may want to consider an official branded programmer instead; this unit is a compatible product aimed at practical use rather than premium commercial support.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supports a wide range of AVR devices and certain 51 devices, minimizing the need for alternate programmers.
• Upgradable firmware keeps the tool relevant as new AVR Studio versions and devices appear.
• Programs Flash, EEPROM, fuses and lock bits, providing a complete ISP feature set in one device.
• USB bus power and included cables make it convenient for bench use and quick setups.

Cons

• Delivered with firmware for AVR Studio 5; users must update firmware themselves to guarantee compatibility with newer AVR Studio releases.

Specifications

Model	USB AVRISP XPII (compatible with AT AVRISP mkII)
Interfaces supported	ISP and PDI (all AVR devices, including XMEGA)
Programming functions	Flash, EEPROM, Fuses and Lock Bit programming
ISP programming speed	Adjustable up to 8M frequency
USB	USB 2.0 compliant, bus powered (12Mbps full speed)
Package contents	Programmer, USB cable, 6-pin cable (additional optional cables)

Our Verdict

The Compatible Atmel AVR ISP mk2 MKII is a practical, cost-conscious programmer for developers and hobbyists who need broad AVR device support and in-system programming features like fuse and lock bit control. Its firmware upgradability and adjustable ISP speed make it a versatile bench tool, offering good value for those comfortable updating firmware and using community resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it work with modern AVR Studio versions?
It ships with firmware for AVR Studio 5 but the firmware can be updated to support later AVR Studio versions; users should update before use with newer toolchains.

Is an external power supply required?
No, the programmer is USB bus powered and USB 2.0 compliant, so an external power supply is not required for typical programming tasks.

Which programming tasks are supported?
The device programs Flash, EEPROM and supports Fuse and Lock Bit programming for supported AVR and certain 51 devices.