LAB:bit educational platform for BBC micro:bit

The Kitronik LAB:bit for the BBC micro:bit offers a super fun way for children to learn about coding in an engaging and hands-on way. It has been specifically designed for the classroom for KS2 computing and is backed by online MakeCode tutorials, simplified custom blocks, and a detailed getting started guide.

The board is packed with an array of features and devices for easy delivery of fun and informative lessons. These include; a motor, ultrasonic distance sensor, 2 x large user-assignable tactile buttons (with indicator LEDs), a microphone, speaker (with volume control), 7 programmable ZIP LEDs(in an arc), A user-assignable potentiometer control, 2 x sets of traffic light LEDs, and LEDs arranged in a dice formation.

The board also features; an edge connector for the micro:bit to slot into, a pre-fitted protective acrylic cover, clip-able pads for attaching an additional motor, 2 x clip-able pads for attaching further buttons/switches, colour changing power indication LEDS, a cutaway for easy reset button access, and pre-fitted anti-slip rubber feet.

This all in one laboratory environment ships with a detailed getting started guide, filled with step by step information that can easily be followed by either teacher or pupil. The guide starts with an introduction to using a micro:bit and the MakeCode editor, with each explained in detail. This is then followed by instructions for fitting the wheel to the motor. Each area of the board is explained in detail, complete with code examples for each. 

Coding is done via the MakeCode blocks editor. Kitronik has produced custom blocks for the editor to ensure that they are suitable for use with pupils aged 7-10. Each area of the board has its own blocks that all slot together in intuitive ways and they have been organised into subdirectories by type.

Power is provided via the provided 3 x AA battery holder into the DC barrel jack input. The board has been rated for a maximum of 6V and a minimum of 3V, 3V – 4.5V recommended. The onboard power regulation circuit provides power to the board and to the micro:bit, removing the need to power the micro:bit separately. LAB:bit has an inbuilt polarity protection circuit for the DC input. There is a colour changing power LED to indicate when the battery voltage is getting low.

Notes

• No soldering
• Minimal mechanical assembly required. The wheel needs to have the tyre fitted and then to be fitted to the onboard motor
• This kit is not supplied with a micro:bit. The micro:bit is available separately here.

Features

• All in one educational platform designed for the delivery of KS2 computing in the classroom (7 – 10-year-olds).
• Packed full of devices, LEDs, switches, sensors, and other programmable features
• Edge connector for the micro:bit to slot into
• Supplied with a pre-fitted protective acrylic cover
• Clip-able pads for attaching an additional motor, 2 x clip-able pads for attaching further buttons/switches, colour changing power indication LEDs, and a cutaway for easy reset button access
• Pre-fitted anti-slip rubber feet to ensure that LAB:bit stays securely on the desk
• Code it with blocks in the MakeCode editor including Kitronik custom blocks
• No soldering!
• The onboard power regulation circuit provides power to the board and to the micro:bit, removing the need to power the micro:bit separately
• Supplied with a fully comprehensive getting started guide

Contents

• 1 x Kitronik LAB:bit for the BBC microbit
• 1 x Yellow 5 spoke injection moulded wheel and rubber tyre
• 1 x 3xAA battery holder

Dimensions

• Length: 150mm
• Width: 100mm
• Max Height: 41mm

Resources

Seven online MakeCode experiments that teach you how to create code for each area of the board:

• Make your own switch
• Making a Dice
• Colouring a rainbow
• Traffic lights
• Controlling motor speed
• Scare the micro:bit, using sound to drive LEDs
• Parking sensor