CircuitPython tutorial

Abby 94 Published: 07/04/2024

CircuitPython tutorial

I'd be happy to help! Here's a comprehensive guide on getting started with CircuitPython:

What is CircuitPython?

CircuitPython is an open-source programming language designed specifically for microcontrollers, such as those found in Adafruit's popular boards like the Circuit Playground Express (CPX). It's based on Python 3.x and allows you to create interactive projects using a simplified syntax.

Setting Up Your Environment

To start working with CircuitPython, you'll need:

A compatible board: As of now, the CPX is the recommended board for beginners. You can purchase it from Adafruit or other online retailers. The CircuitPython IDE: This is the official Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that comes with your CPX. It's a simple and intuitive editor that allows you to write, upload, and test your code.

Writing Your First Program

Once you have the necessary tools set up, let's create your first program! Open the CircuitPython IDE and follow these steps:

Create a new project: Click on the "New Project" button in the top-right corner of the window. Write your code: In the editor area, write the following code to make an LED blink: 
import board

board.setup(0, Pin.IN)


while True:


if board.digital_read(0):


print("LED is on")


else:


print("LED is off")
Upload your code: Click the "Flash" button in the top-right corner of the window to upload your code to the CPX. Verify the result: Connect a LED to pin 0 (or any other digital input pin on your board) and run your program by pressing the reset button or rebooting your board.

Understanding the Code

Let's break down what this code does:

import board: This line imports the necessary libraries for working with the microcontroller. board.setup(0, Pin.IN): This sets up pin 0 as an input pin (IN). The while loop continuously reads the state of the input pin and prints a message depending on whether it's high or low.

Tips and Tricks

Use the documentation: Adafruit provides extensive documentation for CircuitPython, which includes tutorials, examples, and reference materials. Experiment with libraries: There are various libraries available that can help you interact with external components like sensors, displays, and more. Check out the CircuitPython library documentation to find one that suits your project! Join the community: Adafruit has a dedicated community forum where you can ask questions, share projects, and get feedback from fellow CircuitPython enthusiasts.

Conclusion

That's it! With these basic steps, you're now familiar with the process of setting up, writing, and testing code for your CPX using CircuitPython. From here, explore the world of microcontrollers and create amazing projects that combine programming, electronics, and creativity!

Hope this helps!

CircuitPython VSCode

CircuitPython and VSCode: A Match Made in Heaven!

As a maker and developer, you're probably familiar with the world of microcontrollers and programming languages like Python. But have you ever wondered how to seamlessly integrate your code with Visual Studio Code (VSCode)? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we'll explore the fantastic combination of CircuitPython and VSCode, which will revolutionize your development experience.

What is CircuitPython?

CircuitPython is an open-source, Python-based programming language specifically designed for microcontrollers. It's a unique variant of Python that enables you to create interactive projects using hardware like Arduino boards, Pyboards, and even Raspberry Pis. With CircuitPython, you can write code in the familiar Python syntax, but with added support for GPIO interactions, interrupts, and more!

What is VSCode?

VSCode is a free, open-source code editor developed by Microsoft. It's an extension of the popular Visual Studio Code editor, which provides features like syntax highlighting, debugging, and project management. As a versatile development environment, VSCode supports multiple programming languages, including Python.

Combining CircuitPython and VSCode

The magic happens when you integrate CircuitPython with VSCode using the official CircuitPython Extension. This extension enables you to write, debug, and deploy your CircuitPython code directly within the VSCode editor. Here's how it works:

Install the CircuitPython Extension: Head over to the VSCode Extensions Marketplace and install the "CircuitPython" extension. Set up your board: Connect your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino or Pyboard) to your computer and ensure that it's recognized by VSCode. Create a new project: Within VSCode, create a new folder for your project and initialize it with the CircuitPython template. Write your code: Use Python syntax to write your code, taking advantage of CircuitPython's GPIO and interrupt features. You'll find that VSCode provides syntax highlighting, debugging tools, and a Project Explorer to keep your files organized.

Key Benefits

Familiarity: Write Python code in the familiar VSCode editor, with all its bells and whistles! Efficient development: Take advantage of VSCode's features like auto-completion, debugging, and project management to streamline your development process. Seamless deployment: Deploy your code directly to your microcontroller using the extension, without the need for external tools or IDEs.

Example Project:

Let's create a simple project that uses an Arduino Uno board with VSCode and CircuitPython. We'll flash the LED on digital pin 13 every second:

import time

board = pyb.D13


while True:


board.high()


time.sleep(1)


board.low()


time.sleep(1)

Conclusion

By combining the power of CircuitPython and VSCode, you'll be able to develop and deploy your microcontroller projects more efficiently than ever before. With this integration, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds: the flexibility of Python programming and the visual appeal of the VSCode editor.

Get started with this fantastic duo today and take your maker projects to new heights!

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