Kitronik Inventors Kit for the BBC micro:bit - Python version

by Kitronik

The Kitronik Inventor's Kit - Python version for the BBC micro:bit is a great way to get started with programming and hardware interaction with the BBC micro:bit.

This Inventor's Kit contains everything you need to complete 10 experiments including using LEDs, motors, photoresistors and capacitors. To get you off to a flying start, Kitronik have included an easy to follow tutorial book which guides you through everything you will need to know about programming the BBC micro:bit. You don't need any experience with programming as the tutorial book will guide you every step of the way. You'll be programming and creating circuits in no time!

The tutorial offers step by step guides to all 10 experiments. Experiments 1 - 6 are coded with MakeCode Blocks and experiments 7 - 10 are coded with the MakeCode Python editor. The Python version tutorial booklet has been written especially for this version and will walk the user through creating the code and the circuits. In the original Inventor's kit experiments 7 - 10 are coded with JavaScript.

The Kitronik Inventor's Kit - Python version for the BBC micro:bit provides a fantastic way of learning how to construct and control electronic circuits. The BBC micro:bit has a selection of pins that are located on the bottom edge of its PCB. By using the specially designed Edge Connector Board for the BBC micro:bit in conjunction with the breadboard, it is easy to use these pins to connect additional components to the BBC micro:bit.

Inventors Kit Add-On Packs:

On its own, the Kitronik Inventors Kit offers a great introduction to the world of physical computing. The experiments showcase how code and electronics can combine to create real-world every day practical solutions to situations and problems. Harnessing the power of the elements, using sensory input to make things happen, and using variable input amounts to effect a gradual change are just some of the things you can learn as you progress through the experiments. But why stop there?

In our homes, schools and offices we are surrounded by consumer electronics that at their core, are physical computing devices. Coded electronic devices are everywhere. Many of these devices have been coded to communicate things to us, both visually and audibly. The three add-on packs for the inventors kit have been specifically devised to introduce you to these aspects of practical physical computing.

Note:

  • This kit requires assembly.
  • The kit ships with a booklet with detailed instructions and diagrams for all 10 experiments.
  • Complete the experiments with the MakeCode Editor.
    • Experiments 1 - 6 with MakeCode Blocks.
    • Experiments 7 - 10 with MakeCode Python.
  • No soldering is required and you can build your first circuit in minutes!
  • This kit does not include a BBC microbit.
  • If you purchase a microbit separately you may also need to purchase a Battery Cage and a USB Cable, depending on which microbit option you purchase.

Features:

  • No soldering required - build your first circuit in minutes!
  • Make 10 experiments included in the provided step-by-step tutorial book.
  • As your skill grows, progress from Blocks to Python all within the MakeCode environment.
  • Experiments 1 - 6 are blocks orientated.
  • Experiments 7 - 10 are now completed with Python.
  • All parts are included to conduct the 10 experiments (listed below).
  • Breaks out 21 accessible pins from the BBC micro:bit using the Edge Connector Board for the BBC micro:bit (included).
  • Small Prototype Breadboard included for fast prototyping.

Contents:

  • 1 x Mounting Plate.
  • 1 x Potentiometer - Vertical Type (finger adjust) 100K.
  • 1 x Finger Adjust Spindle.
  • 2 x Plastic Spacer 10mm.
  • 1 x Sticky Fixer for Battery Pack.
  • 1 x Small Prototype Breadboard.
  • 1 x Terminal Connector.
  • 4 x Push Switch.
  • 1 x Motor.
  • 1 x Transistor.
  • 2 x Red 5mm LED.
  • 2 x Orange 5mm LED.
  • 2 x Yellow 5mm LED.
  • 2 x Green 5mm LED.
  • 1 x RGB 5mm LED.
  • 1 x Fan Blade.
  • 5 x 2.2KΩ Resistor.
  • 5 x 10KΩ Resistor.
  • 5 x 47Ω Resistor.
  • 1 x Edge Connector Breakout Board for BBC micro:bit.
  • 10 x Male to Male Jumper Wires.
  • 10 x Male to Female Jumper Wires.
  • 1 x 470uF Electrolytic Capacitor.
  • 1 x Piezo Element Buzzer.
  • 4 x Pan Head M3 Machine Screw.
  • 1 x Phototransistor.

Requires:

  • 1 x BBC micro:bit
  • 1 x Phillips Screwdriver.
  • 1 x Terminal Block Screwdriver.
  • 1 x Micro USB Cable.

All of the experiments included in the booklet (listed below) are completed using the Microsoft MakeCode Editor.

Inventors Kit Additional Free Resources:

Exp No#. Experiment Name. Resource Type.
1 Say Hello to the BBC micro:bit. Further Help.
2 Using a Light Sensor & analog inputs. Full Experiment + Further Help.
3 Dimming an LED using a potentiometer. Further Help.
4 Using a transistor to drive a motor. Full Experiment + Further Help.
5 Using the accelerometer to control motor speed. Further Help.
6 Setting the tone with a piezo buzzer. Further Help.
7 Wind Power. Full Experiment + Further Help.
8 Making a game using the compass. Further Help.
9 Capacitor charge circuit. Further Help.
10 Using an RGB LED. Further Help.
11 Making a pedestrian crossing. Full Experiment + Further Help.
12 Making a random dice. Full Experiment + Further Help.

Third-Party Resources:

Insight Resources Mr Bit is an online educational coding platform that also features sections devoted to some of our key micro:bit accessories, including this kit. This content has been developed by Insight Resources and any questions relating to them should be directed at their contact information. To access these resources, please visit;