PIC microcontroller programming can be done at home. This, with the appropriate set of instructions, tools and materials can be done to make your set-up workable without need for technician overhead cost. Initially, a PIC programmer should be selected. There are many options for this and comparing their capacities and costs are key to making the right decision. With a little research and a little contrasting among the available materials, you can get the proper PIC controller best suited for your budget and technical requirements. Then, use your basic KIT 149 USB/Serial Port Programmer to program your PIC. The software would guide you as you program the PIC. By using a hex file, you can readily use machine code to program the PIC microcontroller. You should connect both the board and the fuses, and configurations can be chosen from the MicroPro dropdown menus. The third and most important step in PIC microcontroller set-up without the use of demo board. An oscillator is needed to make the whole set-up work. Also, a reset switch would be important to make the system workable.

SOURCE: http://oak.cats.ohiou.edu/~db283101/pichowto.html