Lesson 0: Introduction to the BBC micro:bit

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Lesson 0: Introduction to the BBC micro:bit#

What is the BBC micro:bit#

The BBC micro:bit (micro:bit) is a device called a microcontroller. These devices are small computers that can control other devices, collect data from sensors, control motors for robotics projects, and do many other tasks. The micro:bit is designed to help students learn about programming and technology. It has buttons, sensors, and lights built into a tiny board that you can hold in your hand. You can write simple programs with a computer and send them to the micro:bit, making it do things like display messages, play sounds, illuminate lights, or sense the environment. It’s used in schools to teach coding and electronics in a fun and interactive way, helping students learn how to code and create their own inventions.

microbit

The micro:bit has:

While you read this list of components, try to identify their location on the micro:bit.

  • A 5×5 LED matrix display (with light sensing capabilities)

  • Two programmable buttons

  • A temperature sensor

  • An accelerometer and compass

  • A logo capable of sensing touch

  • A buzzer

  • A microphone

  • 19 general-purpose input/output pins to connect external inputs, outputs, sensors, actuators, and other electronic components.

The micro:bit is programmable using MakeCode (a block-based language from Microsoft) and MicroPython (a subset of the Python programming language). MakeCode will be used in every lesson of this manual.