Setting up the micro:bit with Makecode

Step 1 Go to the makecode.microbit.org website

• All of the programming for the micro:bit is done through their website. Open this link to go to the website: https://makecode.microbit.org

• Click on 'New Project'

• You'll then be directed to the MakeCode editor.

Step 2 The two interfaces

• The micro:bit coding interface has two options; the 'Blocks' interface and a 'Javascript' interface. These interfaces are intended to enable one to learn coding easily by being able to transfer from blocks to javascript.

Step 3 Introduction to the Blocks Interface

• The blocks interface is a visual programming interface; where 'blocks' 'snap' into place to form functions and commands

• This type of interface is aimed at beginners to aid them in the beginning of their programming journey and help one understand how computer commands and functions work.

Step 4 Blocks interface - Panel Layout

• As a blank project is opened, down the side is the location of all the 'blocks' separated in their categories; With a BBC micro simulator next to this.

• In the centre is the panel building space. This is where the blocks get placed and the programming happens!

Step 5 Adding extensions

• Extension packages are used to extend the functionality of the micro:bit

• To add a package, you must first click on the 'Advanced' tab found on the bottom of the panel layout.

• Next select 'Extensions' button

• And now you can search for the extension package you need, for the groove kit, the package required is the 'grove zero' package

Step 6 Blocks interface - Programming

• To program using the block interface, an 'on start' or a 'forever' loop is required which allows anything in this loop runs forever.

• To program, a simple click, drag and drop maneuverer is employed; this can be done with any of the 'blocks'.

Step 7 Javascript Interface - Introduction

• To access the JavaScript programming interface, click on the 'JavaScript' button in the top centre.

• This will open the interface where any initial blocks become text. The add on packages still apply here.

Step 8 Javascript Interface - Programming

• This programming language is javascript and goes beyond the scope of this guide; the categories on the side apply the text equivalent of the 'blocks'

• This format is used mostly for precise tweaking or learning javascript.

Step 9 Adding a program to the micro:bit

• First off, click the download button in the bottom left corner of the screen.

  • This will download a hex file (computer program file) which the micro:bit can read.

• Next, plug in your micro:bit, this will reveal a USB on your computer.

• Lastly copy across the downloaded file to the micro:bit by dragging and dropping it into the MICRO:BIT drive

• The micro:bit will flash as the code is being uploaded. Once done, unplug the micro:bit.