BBC micro:bit

Technology Puts Kids in Control

A pocket-sized computer is helping students explore the potential of technology, and develop the skills needed to turn ideas into exciting new inventions. The BBC micro:bit is an easy-to-use programmable device that introduces children into coding. It is being offered free to year 7 pupils across the UK and is the result of an extraordinary collaboration between the broadcaster and 28 industry partners.

Its highly functional design means the BBC micro:bit can be coded in seconds and students’ imagination will be fired by its range of features. It includes a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis magnetometer, LED lights and programmable buttons. It can be physically linked to other devices via Bluetooth® Smart Technology and programmed using software available on the micro:bit website. More advanced tools are also available for students’ as their skills develop.



 

Featured Technology

The BBC micro:bit is enabled by software development kits and compiler services. The software enables Lancaster University's micro:bit runtime solution, and the Microsoft programming interface sits on top of the compiler service, converting users' programs into code. The micro:bit features the nRF51822 SoC from Nordic Semiconductor that utilizes an Arm Cortex®-M0 processor and an NXP Kinetis KL26 SoC that is powered by a Cortex-M0+ core. Both are low-powered solutions that give kids plenty of opportunity to be innovative.

The project is part of the BBC’s wide-reaching Make it Digital initiative that is encouraging young people to explore digital technology. It also aligns with industry attempts to meet the demand for science and engineering skills.

Vendor

BBC micro:bit

Partner

Nordic Semiconductor, NXP

Arm Technology

Arm Cortex-M0, Arm Cortex-M0+