Micro:bits Basics
Micro:bit & Physical Computing!!
Physical computing is the practice of building interactive systems that allow software to sense and respond to the physical world. Starting here helps to create a stronger link for students between their code and what it can be used to do with quick feedback loops and clear goals.
It uses microcontrollers to translate digital code into real-world actions, such as moving a motor or blinking an LED. Essentially, it’s about moving beyond the screen to create "smart" objects that can hear, feel, and move within their environment.
Built-in Inputs
Inputs and outputs already built-in to the Miro:bit will be the easiest to start with. No extra sensors to buy or libraries to install.
Just want to add a day or two of intro to coding? Stick to built-ins!
This is NOT a comprehensive list — there are more built-in inputs.
If you want a build guide for one that isn't listed just ask Grace or Miles!
Buttons
Micro:bits have built in components that are pressed to trigger an action. There are two buttons on the face of the Micro:bit; pressing A can trigger one action, pressing B can trigger another action, pressing A+B together can trigger something totally different.
Accelerometer
Micro:bits have a built in component to be able to measure motion. This component is called an accelerometer.
Your Micro:bit can measure motion in all directions, X axis, Y axis, Z axis.
Built-in Outputs
Inputs have to trigger something to make sense in our code. These are the two main outputs used that are built into the Micro:bit.
Once students understand the basics of how to incorporate them into their code, there is lots of room for them to be creative and try new things with just two types of outputs.
If you want a build guide for one that isn't listed just ask Grace or Miles!
LED Array
There is a grid of 25 light-emitting diodes or LEDs right on the front of the microcontroller. These LEDs are easy to code and give you lots of options for visual light up elements to use in your project.
Speakers & Sounds
Mico:bit & Make Code have lots of different ways to use sound as an output. You can make lots of beeps and boops through your code. On of my favorite ways to do so is through the Make Code melody maker.
External Inputs
To expand the complexity of projects and access more reliable data from inputs, external sensors are the natural next step.
These build guides were designed to be used with the SparkFun red Micro:bit breakout board. We have most of these sensors in stock in the FabLab electronics section. Use the ones we have to test them out before buying more for a class :)
There are LOTS more external inputs but these are the ones we have tested in class and have worked well for our students.
If you want a build guide for one that isn't listed just ask Grace or Miles!
Capacitive Touch (copper tape)
Capacitive touch can be used on the Micro:bit itself (Making a pin or the Micro:bit logo touch capacitive) or can be extended using copper tape to add a touch activated element to any project.
D.I.Y. Button
Making a DIY button is a good way to help students understand how circuits with buttons in them work. We have mostly used this as an intro activity rather than a part of a larger project.
Light Sensor (BH1750)
While the built in light sensor on the Micro:bit works okay,
for more accurate/reliable readings the BH1750 is your guy!
Potentiometer
Unlike a switch or a button, a potentiometer isn't a on/off component. Potentiometers allow you to control a range of voltage and current by adjusting the amount of resistance it applies to circuit by turning the knob up or down.
Range Sensor (VL53L0X)
Want to trigger an output when someone/something gets close to your project?
The range sensor is the way to do it!
Rotary Encoder
While this gizmo may look similar to a potentiometer it does not function the same. Instead of controlling voltage, the rotary encoder allows you to scroll through a range of options. Rotary encoders spin infinite times and are good for changing the position of a continuous servo, changing color range on a neo-pixel, and have other applications also.
This one is trickier for students. Good to have in your back pocket for early finishers/students with a very specific vision for their project that another sensor wouldn't work for.
External Outputs
Like external inputs, external outputs are a great way to expand complexity of projects.
Servos are the external output we use most but, there are lots of others!
This build guide was designed to be used with the SparkFun red Micro:bit breakout board. We have servos in stock in the FabLab electronics section. Use the ones we have to test them out before buying more for a class :)
There are LOTS more external outputs but these are the ones we have tested in class and have worked well for our students.
If you want a build guide for one that isn't listed just ask Grace or Miles!
Servo Motor
Micro:bits can be hooked up to a variety of different outputs through its pins. One that is commonly used to add motion to a project is called a servo.
8 Light Neo-pixel
A neo-pixel is a multicolor LED strip that can be programmed to be almost any color or to switch between colors.
Single LED
A single LED is easy to wire and add to any Micro:bit project but they have way fewer options than the Neo-pixel but are a great place to start.
