Premier Farnell, the Development Distributor, has made the BBC Micro:bit available to buy in North America through Newark element14 and MCM Electronics.
The micro:bit was originally launched in the UK in March 2016 following an educational programme led by the BBC, in partnership with a group of technology partners including ARM, Microsoft and Premier Farnell. The programme included the gifting of one million micro:bits to support digital learning in schools. Premier Farnell are the exclusive manufacturer of the micro:bit and distribute the device through Farnell element14, CPC and a network of resellers in Europe.
Measuring only 4cm by 5cm, the micro:bit is a hands-on, easy-to-use introduction to the world of technology and is packed with features that provide endless possibilities for creativity. The device is supported by a website, www.microbit.org that features a range of resources and tutorials to help users take advantage of the micro:bit’s vast potential.
- 25 red LEDs – light them up, flash messages, create games, and invent digital stories
- Two programmable buttons – associate them with an action and interact with your projects
- On-board motion detector – just like a smartphone; the micro:bit can react to shakes, tilts, and even drops
- A built-in compass – sense which direction you’re facing and your movement in degrees
- Bluetooth Smart Technology and Low Energy – connect to the internet and the world around you, whether that’s other micro:bits, phones, cameras, or tablets to ‘code on the go’ or take selfies
- Five Input and Output rings – connect the micro:bit directly to other devices using crocodile clips or 4mm banana plugs, and send commands back and forth
The micro:bit is available in a range of pack sizes from single micro:bit and ‘micro:bit go’ packs which include a USB cable, battery holder & 2x AAA batteries along with a Quick Start Guide and four inspirational ideas to get started; to ‘Club’ packs of 10 and bulk boxes of 300.
The micro:bit will be available to demo at ISTE in San Antonio, on June 25-28, 2017 – visit stand 3241.
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