---
type: lesson
authors:
  - alex-patterson
cloudinary_convert: false
cover: https://media.codingcat.dev/image/upload/v1620241182/main-codingcatdev-photo/gmjigd84bzqxklcbiljt.png
excerpt: micro:bit Introduction
framework:
  - makecode
language:
  - javascript
published: published
slug: micro-bit-intro
start: June 1, 2022
title: micro:bit Intro
weight: 1
---

## What is a micro:bit

It is a pocket-sized computer 70 times smaller and 18 times faster than the original BBC Micro computers used in schools.

- It has 25 red LED lights that can flash messages and be used to create games.
- There are two programmable buttons that can be used to control games or pause and skip songs on a playlist.
- It has an accelerometer so it can detect motion and knows when you’re on the move.
- The built-in compass knows which direction you’re heading in and…
- It can use a low energy Bluetooth connection to interact with other devices and the Internet. You can find more information on the hardware in our guide [What is a miro:bit](https://support.microbit.org/support/solutions/articles/19000013983-what-is-a-micro-bit-)

One of my favorite places to purchase micro:bit and accessories is [adafruit](https://www.adafruit.com/category/932)

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/ccvlk7fcb9tku967m9jz.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/ccvlk7fcb9tku967m9jz.png)

For a full list checkout the micro:bit website, make sure to sort by your country to see what is available.

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/p5oqxjd06eam4a2l2lyk.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/p5oqxjd06eam4a2l2lyk.png)

For this unboxing I purchased [micro:bit go kit, Pocket-Sized, programmable Computer with Cable and Battery Pack from Amazon](https://amzn.to/2ya49wq)

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/vsoxronkbjkvl49rfgeg.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/vsoxronkbjkvl49rfgeg.png)

I would also recommend picking up some some alligator clips for some of the fun tutorials.

[Haitronic Unique 2 in 1 Alligator Clip to Dupont Wire 10pin 20cm Male, Crocodile Clip to Jumper Wire 10pin 20cm Female for Test Lead Arduino/Raspberry pi/Orange pi/Makey Makey/BBC Micro: bit](https://amzn.to/2ZaGSFE)

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/cz9lagqgom1pkzvfnzka.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/cz9lagqgom1pkzvfnzka.png)

When you receive your micro:bit you will be itching to get up and running, it is really a very basic

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/gpdkrapyt49n8ynh79zd.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/gpdkrapyt49n8ynh79zd.png)

Inside (if you purchased the BBC micro:bit go) you will find a micro:bit, usb cable, and battery pack.

## Hook micro:bit to Computer

All you need to do is plug a usb A into your computer, then place the micro USB type B into your micro:bit

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/v1589750069/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/microbit_hookup.gif](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/v1589750069/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/microbit_hookup.gif)

### Makecode

[microbit.org](https://microbit.org/) is the main site but there is an area that will take you to [makecode.microbit.org](https://makecode.microbit.org/) which is the main site to start programming your new micro:bit. Start with something basic like the flashing heart, this will provide you with an awesome interactive guide to start learning.

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/dd5s7xlhx1hetzw8jju8.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/dd5s7xlhx1hetzw8jju8.png)

With the latest update you can select which language you would like to learn and start a tutorial, for younger kids I would recommend Blocks. Since we focus a lot on web solutions at CodingCatDev I would recommend using the JavaScript tutorial as well.

![https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/wnbfqzdhc5anpf1w74a0.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/ajonp/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto/ajonp-ajonp-com/uploads/wnbfqzdhc5anpf1w74a0.png)
