Although it is possible, using the simulator in the programming dialog does not have that much practical use, due to the volatileness of the simulator. However, it can be useful for new users to explore the programming dialog without the risk of damaging any real hardware, or even without having invested in any hardware at all. It can also be used to create a production file, which can include flash content, EEPROM content, user signatures, fuse settings and lock bits settings.
The simulator supports the following operations:
Read device ID
Erase device/memories
Program, read, and verify memories
Program, read, and verify fuses
Program, read, and verify lockbits
When the programming dialog is opened and a device is selected, the simulated device starts with default factory settings and empty memories. Any data programmed into the simulator will be retained until a different device is selected, or the programming dialog is closed