The Micro:Bit Breakout by Yuvipep is a versatile breakout board designed to enhance the functionality of the BBC Micro:Bit microcontroller. It provides easy access to the Micro:Bit's GPIO pins, enabling seamless integration with external sensors, actuators, and modules. Additionally, the breakout board includes features such as a regulated power supply, mounting options, and labeled pin headers for user convenience.

• Prototyping with the BBC Micro:Bit for educational and hobbyist projects.
• Connecting external sensors, motors, and displays to the Micro:Bit.
• Building IoT devices and robotics projects.
• Simplifying circuit assembly for classroom or workshop environments.

The Micro:Bit Breakout is designed to interface with the BBC Micro:Bit and provides the following technical features:

• Input Voltage: 3.3V to 5V (via Micro:Bit or external power source).
• Output Voltage: 3.3V regulated (for connected peripherals).
• Maximum Current: 500mA (shared across all GPIO pins).
• Pin Headers: 21 labeled GPIO pins (P0–P20) with GND and 3.3V rails.
• Additional Features:
  • Dedicated power input terminal for external power sources.
  • Mounting holes for secure attachment to enclosures or projects.
  • Reverse polarity protection for power input.

The breakout board provides access to the Micro:Bit's GPIO pins through labeled headers. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Attach the Micro:Bit: Insert the BBC Micro:Bit into the breakout board's edge connector, ensuring proper alignment.
2. Connect Power:
   • If using the Micro:Bit's onboard power, no additional power connection is needed.
   • For higher power requirements, connect an external 3.3V–5V power source to the VIN and GND terminals.
3. Connect Peripherals: Use the labeled GPIO headers to connect sensors, actuators, or other modules. Ensure proper wiring to avoid short circuits.
4. Program the Micro:Bit: Write and upload code to the Micro:Bit using the MakeCode editor or Python.

• Power Supply: Avoid exceeding the 500mA current limit to prevent damage to the breakout board or Micro:Bit.
• Pin Voltage Levels: Ensure connected peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels to avoid damaging the Micro:Bit.
• Secure Connections: Use jumper wires or DuPont connectors for reliable connections to the GPIO headers.
• Mounting: Use the provided mounting holes to secure the breakout board in your project.

The following example demonstrates how to use the Micro:Bit Breakout to read an analog sensor connected to pin P0 and control an LED on pin P1.

from microbit import *

while True: # Read the analog value from pin P0 (e.g., a potentiometer) sensor_value = pin0.read_analog()

# Map the sensor value (0-1023) to an LED brightness level (0-255)
led_brightness = int(sensor_value / 4)

# Set the brightness of an LED connected to pin P1
pin1.write_analog(led_brightness)

# Add a small delay to stabilize readings
sleep(100)

1. Micro:Bit Not Powering On:

   • Cause: Improper power connection or insufficient voltage.
   • Solution: Verify the power source and ensure the VIN pin receives 3.3V–5V.

2. Peripherals Not Responding:

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or incompatible voltage levels.
   • Solution: Double-check connections and ensure peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels.

3. Overheating:

   • Cause: Excessive current draw from connected peripherals.
   • Solution: Limit the total current draw to 500mA or use an external power supply.

4. Micro:Bit Program Not Running:

   • Cause: Code errors or improper pin usage.
   • Solution: Verify the code and ensure the correct pins are used in the program.

• Can I use 5V peripherals with the Micro:Bit Breakout?

  • No, the Micro:Bit operates at 3.3V logic levels. Use level shifters for 5V peripherals.

• What is the maximum current I can draw from the GPIO pins?

  • The total current across all GPIO pins should not exceed 500mA.

• Can I power the Micro:Bit through the breakout board?

  • Yes, you can supply 3.3V–5V to the VIN pin, which will power both the breakout board and the Micro:Bit.

• Is the breakout board compatible with all versions of the Micro:Bit?

  • Yes, the breakout board is compatible with both Micro:Bit V1 and V2.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the Micro:Bit Breakout by Yuvipep to expand the capabilities of your BBC Micro:Bit projects.