The basics of getting started with MicroPython and the Pico microcontroller were first introduced, followed by some simple hardware tests with general purpose inputs and outputs (GPIOs) and an RGB LED.

In this tutorial, the Raspberry Pi Pico was explored using Thonny, a Python IDE already installed on the general distribution of the Raspberry Pi operating system (Raspberry Pi OS). Using only a Raspberry Pi 4, the Pico microcontroller can be programmed to run MicroPython and harness its numerous peripherals: I2C, SPI, UART, PWM, analog-to-digital conversion, etc. It is a direct rival in some respects to competitive open-source and ‘maker’ electronics companies like Arduino, Espressif, PIC, Teensy, and others. The Raspberry Pi Pico was introduced as a new MicroPython-enabled microcontroller produced by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. An RGB LED will be used to demonstrate general purpose input/output of the Pico microcontroller. From start to finish - this tutorial helps users run their first custom MicroPython script on the Pico in just a few minutes. A Raspberry Pi 4 computer is ideal for interfacing with the Pico, which can be used to prepare, debug, and program the Pico. The focus on MicroPython, as opposed to C/C++, minimizes the confusion and time required to get started with the Pico. One particular draw of the Pico is its compatibility with MicroPython, which is chosen as the programming tool for this project. One of the innovations of the Pico is the dual-core processor, which permits multiprocessing at clock rates up to 133 MHz. The board is just 21mm x 51mm in size, making it ideal for applications that require low-profile designs. The Pico shares many of the capabilities of common Arduino boards including: analog-to-digital conversion (12-bit ADC), UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, among others. The Raspberry Pi Pico was recently released by the Raspberry Pi Foundation as a competitive microcontroller in the open-source electronics sphere.

Pi pico pinout download