/Microbit

Microbit

Scratch or MakeCode

  • Micro:bits can be used with either Scratch or MakeCode
  • MakeCode tends to be easier to get up and running, since it will use WebUSB and works across Windows, Macs and Chromebooks equally
  • Micro:bits on Scratch requires Scratch Link to run in the background, to pair Scratch with the Micro:bit over Bluetooth.
    • Scratch Link tends to be temperamental on Macs and does not exist for Chromebooks at all

Projects

MakeCode

Preparing a Micro:bit Club Pack for CoderDojo

Tip

When updating multiple microbits (either firmware or Scratch) @conallob would save time by:

  • Downloading the relevant hex files and be ready to go
  • Use the same CLI copy command to copy the hex file over
  • Attach a micro:bit
  • Copy the hex file over
  • Disconnect micro:bit and attach the next micro:bit.

Update the Micro:bit Firmware

  1. Download firmware, being careful to get firmware for the correct board version. (Firmware to Board mismatches will result in the 529 Boot Error)
  2. Boot into Micro:bit bootloader, by holding down reset button (non LED grid side) before plugging in USB cable
  3. Copy the .hex file onto the MAINTAINENCE drive
  4. Wait for the yellow LED beside the reset button to stay solid
  5. Disconnect and reconnect USB cable

Install Scratch on Micro:bit

  1. Download Scratch Micro:bit .hex from https://scratch.mit.edu/microbit & unzip
  2. Boot the Micro:bit into Normal mode (appears as NO NAME device)
  3. Copy .hex file into Micro:bit to NO NAME drive (NB: Make sure you are not in bootloader, you will confuse yourself)
  4. Wait for the yellow LED beside the reset button to stay solid
  5. Reboot Micro:bit
  6. Confirm 5 letters are scrolling across the LED grid. This means it is ready to pair in Scratch
  7. Pair with Scratch

Additional Resources