The British Invasion is here! No, not music... microcontrollers! The BBC micro:bit is one of the newest and easiest ways to learn programming and electronics.
Designed specifically for kids and beginners, the micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that you can code, customize and control to bring your digital ideas, games and apps to life. It’s a small, code-able device that is a non-intimidating introduction to programming and making – switch on, program it to do something fun – wear it, customize it, develop new ideas.
The micro:bit platform combines the 'bit, a pocket-sized coding device featuring several sensors and LEDs, with an awesome website full of coding examples and projects. Start out with the video tutorials, then check out the ideas page to get creative. From making your own games to taking selfies, the possibilities are endless!
This is the micro:bit Club 10-Pack with batteries, battery holders & USB cables. You'll get enough parts for 10 makers or 5 makers working paired up. For the individual micro:bit (no extras) click here!
The micro:bit is based off of the nRF51822 microcontroller, which has built in Bluetooth LE radio. There are two programmable buttons that can be used to control games, send a radio message, activate the display, etc. The micro:bit can detect motion (using an accelerometer) and tell you which direction you are heading in (using a magnetometer/compass chip). On the bottom is an expansion port, with 5 alligator-clip friendly pads and additional card-edge contacts for 19 total I/O pins. Each of these sensors, inputs, and outputs, is completely programmable via easy-to-use software that can be accessed from a PC, laptop, tablet, or mobile.
You can use MakeCode/PXT blocks or micro Python to start your programming adventure. Advanced programmers can graduate to mbed for super-powerful C or C++ programming.
Exciting, right? It includes everything you need to begin learning about hardware and software. No programming or hardware experience is necessary!