The BBC micro:bit is a pocket sized programmable micro-controller designed for use in education.
As part of an education programme, these were given to schoolchildren to be used to teach the principles of programming. They were designed to be compact in size but have an assortment of sensors and feedback devices and to spark the creativity of children to the potential of programming.
After the first distribution, they were made available commercially for all to use.
The commercial version is supplied in a cardboard box containing the micro:bit, a small instruction manual and a safety guide. Minimum additional equipment is required, a USB to micro USB data cable (not a charging cable) and a computer (Windows/Mac/Linux) with a browser.
The rear of the micro:bit, showing the labelling. As you can see it has a Bluetooth Low Energy aerial, magnetometer (compass), accelerometer, micro USB power and data socket, battery connector and processor. It also shows the connectors.
There are five big connectors suitable for crocodile clips, machine screws or conductive thread. On the front face they are labelled pins 0-2, 3V and Ground. Other pins are available through the edge connector. On this side is also the 5 x 5 LED display and two push buttons.
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