Skip to content

Reference

Topic-based reference guides for quick lookup. For step-by-step learning, see the Tutorials.


Getting Started

Guide Description
Getting Started Project setup, REPL, boot sequence
Introduction Course introduction and overview
Python Basics Variables, loops, functions, data types
Typical Errors Common mistakes and how to fix them
mpremote Cheatsheet Quick reference for mpremote commands
Deployment Guide USB and WiFi deployment workflows

Fundamentals

Guide Description
Execution Models How MCUs execute code vs PCs
Why Python is Slow MicroPython performance characteristics
C Standard Library C library functions for embedded
CPU Limits & DMA Hardware bottlenecks, DMA transfers

Digital I/O

Guide Description
GPIO Basics Digital inputs/outputs, pull-ups, three-state mode
Addressable LEDs WS2812B NeoPixel control
PWM Pulse-width modulation, buzzer control
picobot Library API reference for motors, LEDs, sensors

Sensors

Guide Description
Optocoupler TCRT5000 line sensors, reflectance detection
Ultrasonic HC-SR04 distance measurement
IMU Gyroscope and accelerometer (BMI160)
ADC Basics Analog-to-digital conversion
Temperature Temperature sensor reading
Light Sensor Ambient light measurement
Battery Voltage Battery level monitoring

Display

Guide Description
OLED Display SSD1306 OLED usage and drawing
LED Panel & Graphics WS2812 matrices, framebuffers, drawing shapes, 3D projection

Control Theory

Guide Description
P-Control Proportional control fundamentals

Motors

Guide Description
Motor Basics DC motors, H-bridge, differential drive
Line Following Feedback control for line tracking

Software

Guide Description
State Machines Organizing complex behavior
Architectures Software architecture patterns
Industrial Architectures Real-world embedded patterns
Interrupts Interrupt handling
IR Remote Infrared remote control
Testing Testing embedded code

Data Analysis

Guide Description
Overview Data analysis workflow
Distance Measurement Ultrasonic distance analysis
Motor System ID Motor characterization
Analyzers Reference Analysis tool API

Hardware

Guide Description
Robot Electronics PicoBot circuit overview
Pin Reference GPIO pin mapping

Extras

Guide Description
Glossary All technical terms
Troubleshooting Common problems and solutions
Common Mistakes Frequent beginner mistakes
Embedded Thinking Cheatsheet Mental models for embedded
Track Specification Competition track layout

Back to Course Overview