Compatible AVR ISP mkII Programmer - AVR In-System Programmer

In this review of the Compatible Atmel AVR ISP mk2 MKII programmer, the bottom line is straightforward: this is a practical in-system programmer for hobbyists and engineers who need broad AVR device support and a reliable USB-powered programmer. The unit is aimed at users who work with AVR microcontrollers and want an inexpensive, mkII-compatible tool that supports ISP and PDI interfaces, fuse and lock bit programming, and an adjustable programming speed up to 8M. It is delivered with firmware for AVR Studio 5 and can be updated to match other AVR Studio versions, which makes it a useful, no-frills programmer for development benches.

Key Features

• AVR Studio compatibility: Delivered with firmware for AVR Studio 5 and can be updated to support AVR Studio 4/6/7 or higher, allowing integration with common development environments.
• Wide device support: Works with all AVR devices that use ISP or PDI interfaces and also supports certain 51 devices, so it covers most AVR programming needs.
• Fuse and lock bit programming: Enables configuration of device fuses and lock bits directly, so users can set low-level microcontroller options during programming.
• Adjustable ISP speed: ISP programming speed is adjustable up to an 8M frequency, which helps when working with targets that require slower clock rates.
• USB powered convenience: The programmer is powered from the USB bus and does not require an external power supply, making it simple to use at a bench or in the field.
• Upgradeable firmware: Based on AVRISP mkII firmware and upgradeable to support future devices, extending its serviceable life for new chips.

Who It's For

The Compatible AVR ISP mkII programmer is best for electronics hobbyists, students, and embedded developers who work primarily with AVR microcontrollers and need a straightforward ISP/PDI programmer. It is a good match for people who already use AVR Studio or want a low-cost alternative to OEM programmers while retaining support for fuse and lock bit programming.

Those who should look elsewhere include engineers needing debugger features beyond in-system programming, or users looking for guaranteed brand warranty and formal support channels. If you require JTAG-only devices or specialized proprietary interfaces, a different programming tool may be more appropriate.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Wide AVR device compatibility including ISP and PDI interfaces, covering most common chips.
• Firmware is upgradeable and ships with AVR Studio 5 firmware for easy initial setup.
• Adjustable ISP speed up to 8M and USB bus power make it flexible and convenient to use.
• Supports fuses and lock bit programming, useful for complete device setup during programming.

Cons

• Not a full debugger; it is focused on in-system programming rather than step-through debugging.
• Limited documentation included in the package note, so some users may need to seek firmware update instructions online.

Specifications

Compliance	AT AVRISP mkII compatible
Interface	USB 2.0 full speed (12Mbps)
Device support	All AVR devices with ISP or PDI interface; certain 51 devices
Programming features	Flash, EEPROM, fuses and lock bit programming
ISP speed	Adjustable up to 8M frequency
Power	Powered from USB bus (no external supply needed)
Package	Includes programmer and 3 optional cables to target board

Our Verdict

The Compatible AVR ISP mkII is a practical, cost-effective in-system programmer for anyone who needs reliable AVR ISP/PDI programming, fuse control, and USB-powered convenience. It is especially good value for hobbyists and developers who want an mkII-compatible tool that can be updated for future devices, though those requiring integrated debugging should consider a different tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this programmer work with AVR Studio?
Yes, it is delivered with firmware for AVR Studio 5 and can be updated to support AVR Studio 4/6/7 or higher.

Does it need an external power source?
No, the unit is powered from the USB bus and does not require an external power supply for typical programming tasks.

Can it program fuses and lock bits?
Yes, the programmer supports fuse and lock bit programming in addition to flash and EEPROM.