This document describes an Atmel AVR in-system programming (ISP) dongle circuit. The circuit connects an AVR microcontroller chip to a computer's parallel port to allow for programming of the chip using ISP software. It uses a buffer IC to isolate the AVR from the parallel port during programming. The circuit provides reset, clock and data signals to program the AVR while it is in reset mode. It can be used as both an external dongle and a standalone programmer with the inclusion of a ZIF socket.