1. You need a programmer to program the PIC to use this.
2. Like many clones, this version of the PICkit doesn't allow you to change Vcc. It's limited to the USB voltage, so this can't be used for low voltage parts.
That is the truth! Too many people want to do it cheaper and the results are never good. Look at the hundreds of posts here trying to make JDM programmers work....and when they don't work with built-in serial ports, the search is on for the "Holly Grail" USB adapter that it might work with.
Even the PICkit clones are a risky investment. Some of them are great, but others leave out the details (like the first schematic posted here) that will be a problem when you have a 3.3v part you need to program.
If you want to spend your time troubleshooting a programmer, use something other than the PICkit 2 or PICkit 3. If you want to actually program something, go for the real deal.
I can make a pickit2 clone and program it with out a ID2 or a pickit2 for less then $10.00 But I would say 3v0 and jon are right most people couldn't make one unless they had a preprogramed 18f2550
But there is software on the net that will program a 18f2550 and a serial programmer that can load it
If any one want's to dig it's on here just start digging I posted both and they do work
Thia is dead simple and it works for both 3.3 and 5 volt parts only one thing you have to supply 3.3 volts if you want to program 3.3 parts you have to do that with the junebug too and It's a good programmer