What is Micro:bit ?
Microbit, or BBC micro:bit, is a small computer designed to make it easier for children and beginners to learn about programming and electronics. Microbit was first launched by the BBC in 2015 as part of a technology education initiative.
Physical Form

- Size: Very small, about 4 cm x 5 cm (smaller than a credit card).
- Main Components:
- Processor: ARM Cortex-M0, a power-efficient microprocessor.
- LED Matrix: 5×5 LED dots to display patterns, numbers, letters, or simple images.
- Buttons: Two buttons (A and B) that can be programmed for various functions.
- I/O Pins: There are input/output pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other devices.
- Internal Sensors:
- Accelerometer: Measures motion or orientation.
- Compass: For detecting direction.
- Light and Temperature Sensors: In addition to some versions.
- Communication:
- Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) for communicating with other devices such as smartphones.
- Radio for communication between microbits.
Features and Functions
- Extremely Easy to Use: Microbit is designed for beginners to get started right away, with a simple interface and clear tutorials.
- Visual Programming: Can be programmed using drag-and-drop editors such as Microsoft MakeCode.
- Programming Language Support:
- Block-based coding (MakeCode).
- Python (MicroPython).
- JavaScript.
- Project Expansion: Microbit can be connected to additional devices such as motors, external LEDs, and sensors to create more complex projects.
How to run microbit
To run micro:bit, the steps are very simple. Here is a complete guide to get started:
1. Prepare Equipment
- BBC micro:bit (micro:bit board).
- USB cable (micro USB to USB Type-A) to connect to a computer or laptop.
- Computer or Laptop with access to a programming editor (MakeCode, Python, or other).
- (Optional) External Battery (2x AAA batteries) if you want to run the micro:bit without a computer.
2. Software Installation (Optional)
- MakeCode Editor (for block-based or JavaScript programming):
- Go to the MakeCode micro:bit site.
- MicroPython Editor:
- Use a Python editor such as Mu Editor, or a plain text editor.
- No additional installation is required if using a web-based editor.
3. Connect micro:bit to a Computer
- Connect the micro:bit to your computer using a USB cable.
- The micro:bit will appear on the computer like a USB flash drive with the name “MICROBIT”.
4. Write a Program
- Using MakeCode:
- Go to the MakeCode website.
- Select “New Project” to get started.
- Drag and drop blocks of code to create the program.
- Click Download to download the program file (.hex).
- Using MicroPython:
- Open a Python editor (for example, Mu Editor).
- Write Python code. A simple example:
- Click the “Flash” button in the editor to upload the code.
from microbit import *
while True:
display.scroll('Hello, World!')
sleep(1000)
5. Upload Program to micro:bit
- Copy the program file (.hex) to the “MICROBIT” drive like moving a normal file.
- Micro:bit will start the upload process (the indicator light will blink).
- Once completed, the program will run automatically in micro:bit.
6. Run the Program
- After the upload is complete, the program will be immediately run by micro:bit.
- You can see the results on the LED matrix or other outputs that match your code.
7. Use Batteries (Optional)
- If you want to run micro:bit without a computer:
- Connect an external battery (2x AAA batteries) to the battery port on the micro:bit.
- The micro:bit will run the last program uploaded.