BBC Micro Bit is a personal coding device for school kids

BBC announced a mini-computer called Micro Bit, a Raspberry Pi-style mini system board. It is the successor to the original BBC Micro, that was launched back in 1980. BBC aims to distribute one-million Micro Bit computers to kids (11 to 12 years old) across the UK in October.

Micro Bit is a little machine, but not a PC or can't run Windows OS. It is a programmable device that can help kids learn basics of software and hardware development.

Micro Bit features an ARM Cortex-M0 micro-controller, 25 red LED lights, two programmable buttons to control it, acceloremeter, compass, Bluetooth LE (Low Energy), Micro-USB port, Reset button plus five I/O (input and output) rings to connect the Micro:bit to devices or sesor using crocodile clips or 4mm banana plugs. It measures 4 x 5cm and will be available in a range of colors. There is no built-in battery, so if you want to use the Micro-Bit, An optional power pack powered by AA batteries is require.

Students can create programs via website, test them online, and then transfer them to the little machine using USB or Bluetooth. It can also be connected to Arduino, Raspberry Pi or Intel Galileo board to use it for more complicated function. According to BBC, using the Micro Bit's built-in magnetometer sensor, you can turn the Micro Bit into a metal detector, the bluetooth connection can be used to turn it into a remote or make a simple video game controller.

BBC has constructed the Micro Bit in partnership with 29 companies like ARM, Barclays, element14, Freescale, Lancaster University, Microsoft, Nordic Semiconductor, and Samsung. The main aim is to 'inspire young people to get creative with digital; develop core skills in science, technology and engineering; and unleash a new generation of digital makers, inventors and pioneers.'

The Micro Bit will be available to school children in UK in October for free. It will go on sale in the UK and other countries before the year ends.

Source : BBC | Via : Liliputing

Kaiser Bey

Kaiser is a tech enthusiast who likes to write, read and talk about tech. He dreams of going to Mars and never come back. We hope that you find his posts on AndroGuider helpful and informative