Adafruit has this week announced the availability of the new Pimoroni automation:bit for micro:bit opening up a wide variety of new applications for the mini PC thanks to its wealth of analog and digital inputs, outputs, and relay.
Priced at $12.95 the Pimoroni’s automation:bit is a fantastic micro:bit accessory for controlling smart home projects, automation or even small robotic creations. The add-on board is shipped fully assembled allowing you to simply plug and play with the ready-to-go MakeCode library. Features and specifications of the Pimoroni automation:bit for micro:bit include :
– 1 x 24V @ 2A relay (comes with the COMmon, Normally-Connected and Normally-Open terminals)
– 3 x High-voltage safe ADC channels (0-24V range)
– 3 x 24V tolerant buffered inputs
– 3 x 24V tolerant sinking outputs
– 3.5mm screw terminals
– Compatible with micro:bit
– Microsoft MakeCode support (Github repository)
– Micropython example usage here
– No soldering required!
“Just slot in your micro:bit, then code automation:bit with the block-based Microsoft MakeCode editor. Hook up buttons to the inputs, use the built-in buttons on micro:bit, or the light-sensing capability of the LED matrix to control devices connected to automation:bit. Or why not use a second micro:bit’s radio function as a remote control? Control and monitor your world with automation:bit! It’s tolerant of up to 24V, with analog and digital inputs, outputs, and a relay, so it’s ideal for automating low-voltage systems in your home.”
Source: Adafruit
