# MICRO:WHAT?

# What is a micro:bit?

The BBC micro:bit is a mini-computer that can be programmed to do almost any task you can imagine using its built in accelerometer,radio functionality, 5 by 5 LED display and its two programmable buttons. Anything from a digital basketball game to passing secret messages or creating a musical instrument is possible with this device that fits in the palm of your hand.

Powered by a battery pack or by USB, the micro:bit is a powerful tool to teach programming in a fun interactive way that has limitless potential. Each activity here teaches different radio concepts using micro:bit, building off of the previous exercise(s) and is perfect for any level of programming experience.

# Using Your micro:bit

In order to use the micro:bit, first connect your micro:bit to your computer using a USB cable. The micro:bit will show up as a drive called 'MICROBIT' in a similar fashion to how a USB device appears when connected to a computer.

Code can be created using blocks in the MakeCode Editor. After creating your code, press the 'Download' button in order to save your code.

This will donwload the code as a .hex file, which is a format that the micro:bit can understand. Locate the downloaded file and drag it to the 'MICROBIT' drive to upload your code to the micro:bit.

Now you're ready to use your micro:bit! You can keep uploading new .hex files onto your micro:bit to try out new programs. Each time you upload a new program the old one is deleted as the micro:bits can only store one .hex file at a time.

Note: The micro:bit can only store .hexx files and will reject any other type of file that it receives.