What is the difference between Python and Thonny?

George 86 Published: 12/01/2024

What is the difference between Python and Thonny?

I'd be happy to explain the differences between Python and Thonny.

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language that is widely used for various purposes such as web development, scientific computing, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and more. It was created in the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum and has since become one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Python's popularity can be attributed to its ease of use, flexibility, and vast range of libraries and frameworks that make it suitable for various tasks.

Thonny, on the other hand, is an integrated development environment (IDE) specifically designed for learning and teaching programming concepts using Python. It was developed at Aalto University in Finland and has since become a widely-used tool for teaching programming to students. Thonny allows users to write, run, and debug Python code directly within its interface.

One of the main differences between Python and Thonny is their purpose. Python is a programming language that can be used to create various types of software applications, while Thonny is an IDE designed to help beginners learn how to program using Python.

Another difference is the way you interact with each of them. With Python, you typically write code in a text editor or IDE like PyCharm, Visual Studio Code, or IDLE, then run it using a command-line interface or through the IDE's built-in runner. Thonny, on the other hand, provides an interactive environment where you can write and run Python code directly within its interface. This makes it easier to experiment with code and see how it works without having to constantly switch between different tools.

Thonny also offers several features that make it more suitable for beginners, such as:

Code completion: Thonny provides suggestions for completing code as you type. Step-by-step debugging: Thonny allows you to step through your code line by line and see the values of variables at each step. Visualization: Thonny includes a visualization panel that shows the output of your code, making it easier to understand how your code is working. Code snippets: Thonny provides pre-written code snippets for common tasks, such as creating lists or dictionaries, that you can use as starting points for your own projects.

In contrast, Python does not have these features built-in and requires users to write their own code completion tools or debugging scripts.

Finally, while both Python and Thonny are used for programming with Python, they serve different purposes. Python is a language that you can use to create software applications, while Thonny is an IDE designed specifically for beginners to learn how to program using Python.

Thonny circuitpython tutorial

I'll respond in English as requested! Here's a comprehensive overview of the Thonny CircuitPython Tutorial:

What is Thonny?

Thonny is an open-source, Python-based Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for MicroPython and CircuitPython. It allows developers to create, upload, and debug code on microcontrollers like those used in Raspberry Pi Pico, Adafruit Circuit Playground Express, and other devices.

Getting Started with Thonny

To start using Thonny, you'll need:

Install Thonny from the official website: https://thonny.org/ Install the required libraries for your microcontroller (e.g., adafruit-circuitplayground-express for the Circuit Playground Express) Connect your microcontroller to a computer using a USB cable Run Thonny and select the correct board from the drop-down menu

Thonny's Key Features

Syntax Highlighting: Thonny provides real-time syntax highlighting, making it easier to read and write code. Auto-Completion: As you type, Thonny offers suggestions for functions, variables, and modules to help with coding. Debugging: You can set breakpoints, step through code, and inspect variable values using Thonny's built-in debugger. Code Upload and Execution: Once you've written your code, upload it to the microcontroller using Thonny's "Upload" feature. Serial Console: Use Thonny's serial console to interact with your microcontroller, send commands, or print output.

Thonny Tutorial

The official Thonny tutorial is a great resource for learning the basics of CircuitPython programming:

Variables and Data Types: Learn how to declare variables, use data types, and manipulate strings. Control Flow: Understand the basics of if-else statements, loops (for, while, repeat), and conditional statements. Functions and Modules: Discover how to define functions, import modules, and create reusable code. Interacting with Hardware: Explore how to read sensor data, control LEDs, and interact with other hardware components.

Best Practices

When using Thonny for CircuitPython development:

Start Simple: Begin with simple projects and gradually move on to more complex ones. Use Libraries: Familiarize yourself with available libraries to simplify your coding experience. Debug and Refine: Use Thonny's debugging features to identify and fix errors, then refine your code for better performance.

Conclusion

Thonny is an excellent tool for CircuitPython development, providing a comprehensive environment for creating, uploading, and debugging code on microcontrollers. With its syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and debugging features, you'll be well-equipped to tackle projects ranging from simple to complex. By following the official tutorial and adhering to best practices, you'll be able to write efficient, readable, and reusable code.

I hope this detailed overview helps you get started with Thonny and CircuitPython!