Getting Started

What you need

• A BBC micro:bit — every project is tested on V2; most also run on V1 (each page says which).
• A micro-USB cable that carries data, not just power.
• A computer with a modern browser — no installs needed for most projects.

Flash your first program

1. Open the micro:bit Python Editor.

2. Replace the starter code with this:

   from microbit import *
   
   while True:
       display.scroll('Hello!')
       display.show(Image.HEART)
       sleep(2000)
   

3. Plug in the micro:bit and click Send to micro:bit (or Save and drag the .hex file onto the MICROBIT drive).

4. Watch the LEDs scroll your message.

Prefer a desktop editor?

Thonny and Mu both support the micro:bit and give you a REPL to try code line by line.

Copying helper libraries

Many Sensors & Modules projects import a helper file such as servo.py or ultrasonic.py. That file must be on the micro:bit before you run the example:

Python EditorCommand line (ufs)Thonny

Click Open…, choose the library .py file and pick Add file — then flash as usual. The editor bundles both files into one download.

pip install microfs
ufs put servo.py

Open the library, then File → Save as… → micro:bit and keep the same file name.

micro:bit V1 vs V2

Feature	V1	V2
Speaker & microphone	—
Data logging (log module)	—
Touch-sensitive logo	—
More memory for larger programs	—

Every example page shows a Board field so you know what will run on your micro:bit.

Next steps

Start with Display Text on the LED Matrix, then work your way through the micro:bit Built-ins before wiring up Sensors & Modules.