Flashing MicroPython to Micro:bit

The Micro:bit is a small, programmable computer designed for educational purposes. It comes with built - in sensors, LEDs, and other features that make it an ideal platform for learning programming and electronics. MicroPython is a lean and efficient implementation of the Python 3 programming language that runs on microcontrollers, including the Micro:bit. Flashing MicroPython to the Micro:bit allows users to program it using the familiar Python syntax, opening up a wide range of possibilities for creative projects.

Table of Contents#

  1. Fundamental Concepts
  2. Prerequisites
  3. Usage Methods
  4. Common Practices
  5. Best Practices
  6. Conclusion
  7. References

1. Fundamental Concepts#

Micro:bit#

The Micro:bit is a credit - card sized computer developed by the BBC in the UK. It features a 5x5 LED matrix, two buttons, accelerometer, compass, Bluetooth, and other sensors. The device has a ARM Cortex - M0+ microcontroller at its heart, which can be programmed to perform various tasks.

MicroPython#

MicroPython is a lightweight version of Python that has been optimized to run on microcontrollers. It retains most of the Python syntax and features, making it accessible to beginners. When MicroPython is flashed onto the Micro:bit, the device can execute Python code directly, enabling users to interact with its sensors and actuators using high - level programming constructs.

Flashing#

Flashing refers to the process of writing a new firmware (in this case, the MicroPython firmware) to the Micro:bit's internal memory. This replaces the existing firmware and allows the device to run MicroPython code.

2. Prerequisites#

  • Micro:bit: You need a physical Micro:bit device.
  • Computer: A Windows, macOS, or Linux computer with a USB port.
  • USB Cable: To connect the Micro:bit to the computer.
  • Web Browser: To access the MicroPython editor for the Micro:bit.

3. Usage Methods#

Step 1: Access the MicroPython Editor#

Open your web browser and go to the Micro:bit Python editor at https://python.microbit.org/. This is an online code editor specifically designed for programming the Micro:bit with MicroPython.

Step 2: Write Your Code#

The editor has a code area where you can write your MicroPython code. For example, the following code will display a heart on the Micro:bit's LED matrix:

from microbit import *
 
while True:
    display.show(Image.HEART)

Step 3: Flash the Code to the Micro:bit#

  1. Connect your Micro:bit to your computer using the USB cable.
  2. On the MicroPython editor, click the "Download" button. This will download a .hex file to your computer.
  3. Locate the .hex file on your computer. Then, open the "MICROBIT" drive that appears when the Micro:bit is connected.
  4. Drag and drop the downloaded .hex file onto the "MICROBIT" drive. The Micro:bit will automatically flash the new code and start running it.

4. Common Practices#

Reading Sensors#

The Micro:bit has several sensors that you can read in your MicroPython code. For example, to read the accelerometer values:

from microbit import *
 
while True:
    x = accelerometer.get_x()
    y = accelerometer.get_y()
    z = accelerometer.get_z()
    print("X: ", x, "Y: ", y, "Z: ", z)
    sleep(1000)

Button Interactions#

You can also detect button presses on the Micro:bit. The following code will display a different image depending on which button is pressed:

from microbit import *
 
while True:
    if button_a.is_pressed():
        display.show(Image.HAPPY)
    elif button_b.is_pressed():
        display.show(Image.SAD)
    else:
        display.clear()

5. Best Practices#

Error Handling#

When writing code for the Micro:bit, it's important to handle errors properly. For example, if you are trying to access a sensor that is not available or if there is an issue with the display, your code should handle these situations gracefully.

from microbit import *
 
try:
    while True:
        display.show(Image.SMILE)
except Exception as e:
    display.scroll(str(e))

Code Optimization#

Since the Micro:bit has limited memory, it's important to write efficient code. Avoid using unnecessary variables and complex data structures. Also, limit the use of infinite loops that can cause the device to freeze.

6. Conclusion#

Flashing MicroPython to the Micro:bit is a straightforward process that opens up a world of possibilities for programming and electronics education. With the familiar Python syntax, users can easily interact with the Micro:bit's sensors and actuators. By following the usage methods, common practices, and best practices outlined in this blog, you can create a wide range of projects using the Micro:bit and MicroPython.

7. References#

2025-10