The Kitronik LAB:bit for the BBC microbit 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
Supplied in the box are; a battery holder (3 x AA),
a wheel and tyre for the motor, and the detailed easy‐to‐follow guide
It is absolutely packed with an impressive 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 (that can also be used for displaying digits)
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, 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 covers everything the user or teacher needs to know, from the ground up
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 and they all slot together in intuitive ways
Detailed information on how to add these blocks to MakeCode can be found in the Getting start guide that ships with LAB:bit
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 is recommended
The onboard power regulation circuit provides power to the board and to the micro:bit,
LAB:bit has an inbuilt polarity protection circuit There is a colour‐changing power LED to indicate when the battery voltage is getting low
