Easy to program in Python with EV3

Python is a high level object oriented program. Lego has implemented MicroPython on their Mindstorm EV3 for making the learning process for kids more easy as well as challenging. This article explains about MicroPython and how it helps the Mindstorm EV3.

Programming for kids with Mindstorm EV3 MicroPython.

The Lego Mindstorm EV3 enables children to build, program and test solutions on real robotic technology. The system gives students the confidence to work in groups, giving them hands on experience with an array of sensors, motors and intelligent units. The EV3 consist of a small powerful computer that controls motors and collects data from the sensor. The Lego Mindstorm EV3 teaches kids to design and build robots using motors, sensors, gear wheel and other technical components. The system can recognize 2D drawing to create 3D models. The EV3 can gain kids with sharper mathematical concepts like measurements, distance, time, and speed.

Recently, Lego has officially launched the MicroPython for Lego Mindstorm EV3. EV3 Micropython runs runs on Linux based operating system ev3dev with the new Pybricks MicroPython runtime and library. This operating system makes it easier for beginners to understand the Python programming on Lego Mindstorm EV3.

Python Program

Python is a high level programming language with dynamic semantics. Dynamic semantics is the method where in piece of text or disclosure are viewed as instructions to update an existing context with new information. Python is an interpreted object-oriented programme.

Python is designed with data structures, dynamic typing and dynamic binding for Rapid application development. It is also used for scripting to connect existing components together. The program can be easily maintained as it is simple and easy to learn and read syntax. Python supports modules and packages, which encourages program modularity and code reuse.

Python enhances productivity and therefore favoured by many programmers around the globe. Debugging the program is easy because no segmentation fault happens due to bug or bad input. The edit-test-debug cycle is pretty fast with Python.

An exception is made if an error happens with the Python programme. When an exception isn’t created, a stack trace can be obtained with which the debugger allows inspection of local and global variables, evaluation of arbitrary expressions, setting breakpoints, stepping through the code a line at a time, and so on. This makes edit-test-debug process fast and reliable.

MicroPython for EV3

MicroPython is an open source Python programming language interpreter that runs on small embedded development boards such as the one used in Lego Mindstorm EV3. MicroPython helps you to write clean and simple code to control the hardware.

The simplicity of the program makes it a favourite choice for beginners who are new to programming and hardware. That doesn’t limit the productivity of the programme because the MicroPython is full featured and supports all the syntax of Python. This makes hardcore programmers or Python veterans to use the program as fun.

Features of MicroPython

1. Code can be executed without the need of compiling or uploading which makes it perfect for quick learning and experimenting hardware.

2. MicroPython has a software library incorporated along with it to support many tasks. For example parsing JSON data from a web service, searching text with a regular expression, or even doing network socket programming is easy with built-in libraries for MicroPython.

3. For experts, MicroPython is extensible with C/C++ language functions which can be used with high-level Micropython coding with faster low-level code.

Lego Mindstorm EV3 with MicroPython

MicroPython gives EV3 brick with innumerable possibilities in coding for everyone. One can just simply install the EV3 MicroPython image onto a MicroSD card and boot your EV3 from the card. You can start programming right away after the booting. Switching back to the standard Lego Mindstorm EV3 program is quite simple.

How to get started

1. Download and flash the EV3 MicroPython image onto a micro SD card

2. Insert your micro SD card into the SD card slot on the EV3 Brick and turn it on

3. Download, install, and launch the free Visual Studio Code editor on your computer

4. Install and activate the LEGO Education EV3 extension

5. Connect the EV3 Brick to your computer and start to code ATLAB is one of pioneering distributors of STEM  educational tools to institutions, educators and children. Lego Mindstorm EV3 with MicroPython can be purchased offline, directly from the shop or you can order from www.atlabshoponline.com.