BBC Micro:bit Anatomy

This page will identify the different parts of the micro:bit. Understanding what the micro:bit is made up of can help pupils before they begin coding.

To begin with I would introduce the class to the following basic anatomy of the micro:bit.

I would then move onto playing a Loop Game in groups on their tables. Each child is given one or two cards depending on how many are in the group. They must then work together to lay all the cards down in the correct order. Anyone can start the game by reading out their ‘Who has…’ half as all the cards will join up. This is then a fun and engaging way to identify the parts of the micro:bit and what they do.

For a copy of a pre made loop game Click Here!

Labelled micro:bit

A:

These are the A and B buttons! They are on the front of the micro:bit and can be programmed as an input device, such as if the buttons are pressed this information is processed and the micro:bit or a programme it is connected to (for example Scratch) reacts.

B:

Input and output rings are found along the bottom of the micro:bit. The rings are labelled 0, 1, 2, 3v and GND.
Rings 0, 1 and 2 are all input or output rings which you can attach external devices to such as LEDs.
Ring 3v is a power supply ring which can also have external devices attached to it which use the micro:bit’s battery or power from the USB connection, for example a buzzer or motor.
The GND ring stands for ground which you would attach the ground wire to for your external devices to complete the circuit.

C:

The LED Display is found on the front of the Mircro:bit. It has a total of 25 light emitting diodes (LED) which can display shapes, icons and characters to spell words. These LED’s can be programmed to light up in different orders, brightness and general off or on.

D:

This label is linked to the Accelerometer and the compass. Both of these concern the movement of the micro:bit. The accelerometer senses a change in the direction of movement, such as up and down (the z axis), left and right (the x axis) and forwards and backwards (the y axis).

Whereas the compass uses magnetic fields to detect the movement changes to identify which way the micro:bit is facing.

E:

The CPU  stands for central processing unit, which allows the micro:bit to have a memory function to store code that has been programmed.

F:

This locates the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) antenna which allows the micro:bit to send and receive Bluetooth signals, this is what is used in the Scratch activity to use the Micro:bit as a controller as they wirelessly communicate to each other.

The micro:bit will need to paired with a device first before wireless communication can be completed.

G:

This is the USB interface which allows the Micro:bit to connect to a computer via the use of a micro-USB cable. This connection will charge the device but also allow you to download programs onto the micro:bit.

H:

This is the reset button. This allows the micro:bit to be reset which removes any current programs from it giving you a blank slate to play with.

I:

This is where the battery is connected to the Micro:bit. This gives the micro:bit power.