Coding MicroPython with Brian
Welcome to Brian's computer science and MicroPython coding page! These classes were taught live during the 2024-25 school year and we've created this page to be an archive of all his classes along with the parts lists, schematics, data sheets and resources you need so everything's in one place.
What is MicroPython? It is the full Python 3 programming language designed to run on tiny computers.
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Looking for the 2025-26 Coding class?
Click here for Unit 28 - Coding Arduino C++.
Coding MicroPython Class Description
During these lessons, you'll learn how to write computer programs to control a device called the Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040.
By writing Python computer code, called scripts, you'll learn how to help digital computers interact with our analog world. You'll use electronic devices to read temperature, light levels, distance, and more. You'll also learn how to control electronic devices such as LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), motors, and relays.
Throughout the course, you'll also learn general programming concepts, such as how to work with binary numbers and how to work with programming variables.
By using coding examples and the creation of your own programs, you'll learn about functions, loops, conditionals, libraries and Boolean logic.
You'll also increase your problem solving skills as you learn the history of debugging and how to catch common coding mistakes.
Step 1. Subscribe to Brian's class update email list through Substack.
Brian uses this email list to send updates throughout the year.
During the summer he provides information on kits.
During the school year, Brian sends information on class resources and upcoming projects.
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Step 2. Order your supplies
We highly recommend using Harbor Freight’s Storehouse 10 Utility Boxes to organize your parts. You’ll need two boxes for the electronics supplies and one box for the programming hardware supplies (three boxes total if you are doing both of Brian's courses this year).
You can add these boxes to your order from Brian, and he will include “ready-to-cut” label cards to help you organize your parts. Alternatively, you can order the boxes directly from Harbor Freight and then purchase the cards from Brian, or print your own.
Boxes 1 and 2 contain parts for "Electronics with Brian"
Box 3 contains parts for "Coding with Brian"
The Raspberry Pi Pico
In addition to the electronic parts, this course requires a Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040). When you order one from FutureVision Research, it will come with a specially labeled breakout board, the pins already soldered, and MicroPython installed. The required USB micro cable is also included.
You can add a Raspberry Pi Pico to your FutureVision Research Servo, Motors, and More kit, or purchase the Pico separately. Here is the link:
You can purchase a Raspberry Pi Pico with the pins installed (known as the "H" model) from Amazon, but you'll need to install MicroPython yourself: https://amzn.to/3QxN2JU. If you purchase a Raspberry Pi Pico elsewhere, you will need to configure it to run MicroPython.
The Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 must be configured to run MicroPython.
If you buy your Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 from Brian, he will configure it for you.
If you buy your Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 else ware, or if you see a drive letter when you connect the Pico to your computer, please follow the instructions on this page to configure MicroPython:
https://www.raspberrypi.com/documentation/microcontrollers/micropython.html
Step 3. Install and configure the Thonny editor
You will need a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer to communicate with your Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 and the Thonny program allows you to do this.
Please watch this video and install Thonny before joining the "Getting Organized" class.
Step 4. Watch "Getting Organized and Preparing for Coding MicroPython with Brian."
This class was recorded on September 3rd, 2024 at 10AM Pacific.
We highly recommend using Harbor Freight’s Storehouse 10 Utility Boxes to organize your parts. You’ll need two boxes for the electronics supplies and one box for the programming hardware supplies (three boxes total if you are doing both of Brian's courses this year).
You can add these boxes to your order from Brian, and he will include “ready-to-cut” label cards to help you organize your parts. Alternatively, you can order the boxes directly from Harbor Freight and then purchase the cards from Brian, or print your own.
Step 5. Watch Brian's Classes
The recording for each session is approximately 60 minutes. The classes are organized into four sections below.
Once you click on a section, you'll see a description below each video.
Student worksheets, vocabulary sheets, presentation slides, and review quizzes are provided at the top of each section's page.
Scripts for this class are available here: https://github.com/FutureVision-Research/coding_micropython
Book Recommendations from Brian
Learning Python, 6th Edition
by Mark Lutz
Provides a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to Python 3 and includes exercises and quizzes.
Programming the Pico: Learn Coding and Electronics with the Raspberry Pi Pico
by Dr. Simon Monk
This book first focuses on Python programming and then moves into electronics using the Pico.
Magazine Recommendations from Brian
Raspberry Pi Magazine (AKA MagPi)
Monthly magazine that offers tutorials, project ideas, news, and reviews focused on Raspberry Pi computers and electronics.
All issues are available as free downloads.
Hackspace Magazine
Originally produced by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Hackspace magazine provides tutorials on electronics and various microcontrollers.
Hackspace was merged into Raspberry Pi Magazine in 2024. However, 81 issues were produced and are still available for free.
Recordings of Additional Lessons from Brian
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