Introduction to the BBC micro:bit

Summary

The BBC micro:bit is a small, pocket-sized computer that can be programmed to perform various tasks. To get started, you'll need the micro:bit, a USB cable, and a computer. Programs are written using software like MakeCode or Python. The micro:bit features a 5x5 LED display, two input buttons, and additional features like a microphone, speaker, and capacitive touch sensor. The latest version includes new capabilities, such as a sound sensor, a gold logo, and the ability to turn the device on and off using the reset button.

Takeaways

• 😀 The BBC micro:bit is a small, pocket-sized computer that requires a micro USB cable and a computer to get started.
• 😀 To make the micro:bit work, you need to write a program, which is called software.
• 😀 The micro:bit has 25 LEDs arranged in a square to display simple visuals.
• 😀 It features two input buttons: button A and button B, which can be used in programs.
• 😀 On the back of the micro:bit, there's a reset button and a small socket to connect a battery pack.
• 😀 To program the micro:bit, you can use different programming languages like MakeCode (which uses blocks) or Python (text-based).
• 😀 For beginners, MakeCode is recommended as a user-friendly place to start programming.
• 😀 The latest version of the micro:bit includes new features like a microphone for sound input and a special LED to measure sound levels.
• 😀 The micro:bit now includes a speaker to add sound output to your projects.
• 😀 The front logo of the new micro:bit is gold, and it features a capacitive touch sensor for enhanced interactivity.
• 😀 You can turn the new micro:bit off by holding the reset button and wake it up by pressing it again.

Q & A

What is required to get started with the BBC micro:bit?

To get started with the BBC micro:bit, you need a micro:bit, a micro USB cable, and a computer.

What is the micro:bit?

The micro:bit is a tiny pocket-sized computer that allows you to write programs and perform various tasks based on the software you create for it.

What is the purpose of the micro USB cable?

The micro USB cable is used to transfer the program onto the micro:bit, enabling the device to execute the program you have written.

What can be seen on one side of the micro:bit?

On one side of the micro:bit, you will find 25 LEDs arranged in a square, which make up a simple display, and two input buttons, A and B.

What features are on the other side of the micro:bit?

On the other side of the micro:bit, there is a reset button and a small socket to plug in a battery pack.

How can you program the micro:bit?

You can write programs for the micro:bit using various programming languages, such as MakeCode (which has both a block and text editor) or Python (a text-based editor). MakeCode is recommended for beginners.

What new features does the latest version of the micro:bit have?

The latest version of the micro:bit includes a microphone for sound sensing, a special LED for showing sound levels, a speaker for adding audio output, a new capacitive touch sensor for interaction, and a gold logo on the front.

What is the function of the capacitive touch sensor on the new micro:bit?

The capacitive touch sensor on the new micro:bit allows you to interact with the device in exciting new ways by detecting touch.

How can you turn the new micro:bit off and on?

To turn off the new micro:bit, hold your finger down on the reset button on the back. To turn it back on, press the reset button again.

Why is MakeCode recommended for beginners?

MakeCode is recommended for beginners because it provides an easy-to-use interface with both block and text editors, making it simpler to understand and create programs for the micro:bit.