MicroPython

MicroPython is an efficient, lean implementation of the Python 3 programming language designed to run on microcontrollers and other memory- and processing-constrained devices. It provides a compact Python interpreter and a subset of the Python standard library, enabling developers to write hardware-oriented code in Python rather than C.

Originating with Damien George in 2013–2014 for the Pyboard, MicroPython has grown into an open-source project with ports to a wide range of boards. It runs on microcontroller platforms such as ESP8266, ESP32, various STM32 boards, and RP2040-based devices, among others. The project emphasizes a balance between Python usability and low-level hardware control.

Key features include a small memory footprint, a garbage collector, an interactive REPL, and a modular architecture that combines Python and C for performance and portability. It exposes hardware via modules such as machine (for GPIO, PWM, ADC, DAC, timers), I2C, SPI, and UART, and provides network and filesystem capabilities on supported boards. It supports asynchronous programming through a subset of uasyncio and offers tools for package installation, such as micropip, to fetch pure-Python modules.

Limitations arise from target constraints: the standard library is a subset, some CPython features are unavailable or restricted, and performance or memory use may be insufficient for large programs. The ecosystem emphasizes embedded and educational use, with a focus on rapid prototyping and direct hardware interaction.

The official site and documentation are maintained by the MicroPython project and the community, providing ports, boards, tutorials, and development guides.

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