Do CircuitPython Libraries Work on MicroPython? [2024] ✅

Video: CircuitPython vs MicroPython: Key Differences.







Have you ever wondered if CircuitPython libraries work on MicroPython? It’s a common question among developers and hobbyists who are exploring the world of Python programming for microcontrollers. In this article, we will dive deep into this topic and provide you with a comprehensive answer. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Yes, CircuitPython libraries can work on MicroPython! 🎉

Quick Tips and Facts

  • CircuitPython libraries provide additional functionality for external devices.
  • Libraries are written in Python and are stored on your device’s CIRCUITPY drive in a folder called “lib”.
  • The CircuitPython Library Bundle contains all the current libraries for CircuitPython, which may or may not work with MicroPython.
  • Libraries are available for download in a zip-file bundle for all recent major versions of CircuitPython, updated daily.
  • To install CircuitPython libraries on MicroPython, you need to manually copy the individual library files to the “lib” folder on your device.

Now that we have the quick answer and some essential facts out of the way, let’s dig deeper into the background and explore the compatibility between CircuitPython and MicroPython.

Background: CircuitPython and MicroPython

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Before we delve into the compatibility between CircuitPython and MicroPython, let’s briefly understand what these two programming languages are.

CircuitPython is a variant of the Python programming language that is specifically designed for microcontrollers and small embedded systems. It provides a simplified and beginner-friendly approach to programming hardware devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

MicroPython, on the other hand, is a lean and efficient implementation of the Python 3 programming language that is optimized for microcontrollers and constrained environments. It offers a complete Python development environment for microcontrollers, allowing users to run Python code directly on their devices.

Both CircuitPython and MicroPython have gained popularity in the maker and IoT communities due to their simplicity and ease of use. Now, let’s explore how compatible these two languages are when it comes to using libraries.

Compatibility Between CircuitPython and MicroPython

Video: Python Vs MicroPython | Comparison & Installation Locations.







CircuitPython and MicroPython share a common foundation in the Python programming language, which means that they are inherently compatible with each other to some extent. However, there are a few key differences between the two that can affect the compatibility of libraries.

One of the main differences is the underlying hardware support. CircuitPython is primarily developed and maintained by Adafruit, a company that specializes in creating open-source hardware and software for makers. As a result, CircuitPython libraries are often designed to work seamlessly with Adafruit’s range of microcontrollers and development boards.

MicroPython, on the other hand, is a more generic implementation of Python for microcontrollers and is not tied to any specific hardware platform. This means that while CircuitPython libraries may work on MicroPython, there is no guarantee that they will be fully compatible with all microcontrollers that support MicroPython.

It’s important to note that the compatibility of libraries can vary depending on the specific library and the target hardware. Some libraries may work perfectly fine on both CircuitPython and MicroPython, while others may require modifications or additional dependencies to function correctly.

Using CircuitPython Libraries with MicroPython

Video: CircuitPython with Raspberry Pi Pico – Getting Started.







If you’re using MicroPython and want to take advantage of the extensive library ecosystem available for CircuitPython, you’ll be happy to know that it is possible! However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Firstly, you’ll need to ensure that the library you want to use is compatible with MicroPython. While many CircuitPython libraries can work on MicroPython without any modifications, some may require adjustments to work correctly. It’s always a good idea to check the library’s documentation or community forums for any specific instructions or known issues related to using it with MicroPython.

Secondly, you’ll need to manually copy the individual library files to the “lib” folder on your MicroPython device. CircuitPython libraries are typically distributed as .mpy files, which are compacted versions of Python source code. These files need to be placed in the “lib” folder on your device’s CIRCUITPY drive to be accessible by your MicroPython code.

It’s worth mentioning that while CircuitPython libraries can work on MicroPython, the reverse is not always true. CircuitPython libraries often rely on specific features or APIs provided by the CircuitPython runtime, which may not be available in MicroPython. Therefore, if you’re using a library that is specifically designed for CircuitPython, it may not work as expected on MicroPython.

Installing CircuitPython Libraries on MicroPython

Video: Installing Libraries in Thonny IDE.







To install CircuitPython libraries on MicroPython, follow these steps:

  1. Download the CircuitPython Library Bundle for the appropriate version of CircuitPython that matches your MicroPython firmware.
  2. Extract the contents of the zip-file bundle.
  3. Locate the individual library files with the .mpy extension.
  4. Copy the library files to the “lib” folder on your MicroPython device’s CIRCUITPY drive.

Once the libraries are copied to the “lib” folder, you can start using them in your MicroPython code. Remember to consult the library’s documentation for any specific usage instructions or examples.

Community Support and Contributions

Video: Testing out CircuitPython library support for U2IF on Pico.







The CircuitPython community is vibrant and active, with a dedicated group of developers and enthusiasts who contribute to the development and maintenance of CircuitPython libraries. The official CircuitPython libraries are supported by Adafruit, a leading name in the maker community, and they provide extensive documentation and resources to help users get started.

In addition to the official libraries, there is also a community-driven bundle called the “Community Bundle” that contains a wide range of libraries contributed by the community. These libraries are not officially supported by Adafruit but are maintained by community members who are passionate about expanding the capabilities of CircuitPython.

The community bundle is a valuable resource for users who want to explore additional functionality or find libraries that are not available in the official bundle. It’s important to note that while the community bundle is not officially supported, many of the libraries included in it are well-maintained and actively used by the community.

FAQ

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Can I use CircuitPython libraries with MicroPython?

Yes, you can use CircuitPython libraries with MicroPython. However, compatibility may vary depending on the specific library and the target hardware.

Read more about “MicroPython Arduino: The Ultimate Guide to Python Programming for Microcontrollers … 🐍🔌”

Can you use Python libraries in MicroPython?

MicroPython has its own ecosystem of libraries that are specifically designed for use with MicroPython. While some Python libraries may work on MicroPython, they may require modifications or additional dependencies to function correctly.

Read more about “Unveil the Power of MicroPython on GitHub: A Deep Dive for Beginners! … 🐍”

Is CircuitPython the same as MicroPython?

CircuitPython and MicroPython are both implementations of the Python programming language for microcontrollers. While they share a common foundation, there are some differences in terms of hardware support and library compatibility.

Read more about “Should I Learn Python or MicroPython? … 🐍🤖”

Is CircuitPython compatible with Python?

CircuitPython is compatible with Python to some extent, as it is based on the Python programming language. However, there may be some differences in terms of library support and specific features.

Read more about “What microcontroller can run MicroPython? … ✅”

Conclusion

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In conclusion, CircuitPython libraries can indeed work on MicroPython, opening up a world of possibilities for developers and hobbyists. While compatibility may vary depending on the specific library and hardware, many CircuitPython libraries can be used with MicroPython without any modifications.

When using CircuitPython libraries with MicroPython, it’s important to ensure compatibility, manually copy the library files to the “lib” folder, and be aware of any specific limitations or dependencies. The CircuitPython community, along with the official and community-supported libraries, provides a wealth of resources and support for users exploring this exciting combination.

So, go ahead and experiment with CircuitPython libraries on MicroPython, and unlock the full potential of your microcontroller projects!

Remember, the world of Python programming for microcontrollers is full of exciting possibilities, and with the right combination of CircuitPython and MicroPython, you can create amazing projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Happy coding!

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