A Closer Look at the BBC micro:bit

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Developed by the BBC

The BBC micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that was developed by the BBC in partnership with a number of technology companies. It was initially distributed to every Year 7 student in the UK in 2016, with the goal of encouraging children to get involved in coding and technology.




Powered by a 32-bit ARM Processor

The micro:bit is powered by a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0 processor and has a number of built-in sensors and components, including an accelerometer, compass, and thermometer. It also has a 5x5 LED matrix, two buttons, and a number of input and output pins that can be used to connect external devices, such as sensors and motors.


Simple Design

One of the key features of the micro:bit is its simplicity. The device is designed to be easy for children to use, with a simple drag-and-drop programming interface that allows them to create their own programs without needing to know how to write code. This interface is based on a visual programming language called Blockly, which is similar to Scratch.


Supports a Variety of Coding Languages and IDEs

The micro:bit can be programmed using a variety of different software and platforms, including the micro:bit website, which offers a range of tutorials and resources for getting started. There are also a number of third-party software and development environments available, such as MicroPython and Microsoft MakeCode, which allow more advanced users to write code in Python or JavaScript.


Has a Wide Range of Uses

The micro:bit has a wide range of potential uses, from simple games and animations to more complex projects such as robots and smart home devices. Many schools and other educational organizations have used the micro:bit to teach coding and technology, and it has also been used in a number of community projects and hackathons.


A Tool for Teaching Coding and Technology

In conclusion, the BBC micro:bit is a compact and simple-to-use computer that was designed to encourage children to get involved in coding and technology. With its built-in sensors and components, easy-to-use programming interface, and wide range of potential uses, it has become a popular tool for teaching coding and technology in schools and other educational organizations, and has also been used in a variety of community projects and hackathons.



Image by Dok Sev from Pixabay 

Image from microsoft.com

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