Adafruit has announced this month the second release candidate of CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2, bringing a few new enhancements to the CircuitPython platform. CircuitPython is a programming language designed to simplify experimenting and learning to code on low-cost microcontroller boards. With CircuitPython, there are no upfront desktop downloads needed. Once you get your board set up, open any text editor, and start editing code. It’s that simple.
What is CircuitPython?
CircuitPython is an open-source derivative of the MicroPython programming language, which itself is a lean and efficient implementation of Python 3 for microcontrollers. CircuitPython is designed to make it easy for beginners to get started with programming and electronics. It supports a wide range of microcontroller boards, including those from Adafruit, SparkFun, and other manufacturers. The language is particularly popular in the maker community for its simplicity and ease of use.
One of the standout features of CircuitPython is its ability to run on inexpensive hardware. This makes it accessible to a wide audience, from hobbyists and students to educators and professionals. The language is designed to be intuitive, with a focus on ease of learning and rapid prototyping. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started with embedded systems or IoT projects.
“We don’t know of any stability issues overall. See port status below for more stability detail. If you find any issues with it, please file an issue. If no issues are found within a week or so, we’ll release this version as stable. Downloads are available from circuitpython.org. The site makes it easy to select the correct file and language for your board. The downloads page is here. Downloads are no longer available from the GitHub release pages because of the large number of files for each release.”
New Features and Enhancements in CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2
The release of CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2 includes several new features and enhancements that improve the overall functionality and user experience. Some of the key updates include:
1. Improved BLE Support: The new release candidate includes enhanced support for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) devices. This makes it easier to connect and communicate with a variety of BLE-enabled peripherals, such as sensors and actuators.
2. Memory Management Improvements: CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2 includes optimizations for memory management, which can help improve the performance of your programs, especially on boards with limited RAM.
3. New Libraries and Modules: The release includes several new libraries and modules that extend the capabilities of CircuitPython. These libraries make it easier to interface with different types of hardware, such as displays, sensors, and communication modules.
4. Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements: As with any new release, CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2 includes a number of bug fixes and stability improvements. These changes help ensure that your programs run smoothly and reliably.
For full details and a complete list of all features and improvements since the previous CircuitPython 6.0.0-rc.2 release, jump over to the official Adafruit blog by following the link below. Full commit log is here.
Getting Started with CircuitPython
If you’re new to CircuitPython, getting started is straightforward. First, you’ll need a compatible microcontroller board. Adafruit offers a wide range of boards that support CircuitPython, such as the Adafruit Feather, Metro, and Trinket series. Once you have your board, follow these steps:
1. Download CircuitPython: Visit the CircuitPython downloads page on circuitpython.org. Select your board from the list and download the appropriate firmware file.
2. Install CircuitPython: Follow the instructions on the downloads page to install CircuitPython on your board. This typically involves copying the firmware file to your board’s storage.
3. Write Your First Program: Open any text editor and write your first CircuitPython program. Save the file with a .py extension and copy it to your board. The board will automatically run the program.
4. Explore Libraries and Examples: CircuitPython comes with a rich set of libraries and example programs. Explore these resources to learn more about what you can do with CircuitPython.
Source : Adafruit
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