Learn CIRCUITPYTHON with Real Code Examples

CircuitPython allows developers to write Python code directly for microcontrollers without complex toolchains.

It includes simplified APIs for sensors, LEDs, displays, and other hardware devices.

Ideal for education, hobbyist electronics, and rapid prototyping of embedded systems.

Runs on microcontrollers (Adafruit boards, ESP32, etc.)

Supports Python 3 syntax with simplified modules

Built-in filesystem for editing code directly

Plug-and-play USB connectivity

Battery-powered and portable projects

Modules and libraries for hardware control

REPL for interactive Python experimentation

code.py for automatic script execution

Digital and analog I/O with pins

Support for sensors, displays, LEDs, and actuators

code.py - main script

lib/ - CircuitPython libraries for peripherals

boot.py - optional boot configuration

data/ - data storage (files, logs)

assets/ - optional images, fonts, or media

Connect microcontroller and load CircuitPython

Write Python code using code.py

Test hardware interactions with REPL

Add libraries for peripherals (sensors, displays)

Deploy interactive or automated functionality

Beginner: LED blink, button input

Intermediate: sensor data logging

Advanced: controlling multiple sensors and actuators

Expert: creating interactive displays or robotics

Enterprise: rapid prototyping of embedded devices

Simpler than standard Python for embedded systems

More beginner-friendly than MicroPython for beginners

Focuses on Adafruit ecosystem compatibility

Limited performance compared to C/C++ microcontroller programming

Ideal for education and prototyping rather than production embedded systems

2013 – MicroPython created by Damien George

2017 – Adafruit releases CircuitPython based on MicroPython

2018–2020 – Rapid expansion of compatible boards and libraries

2021–2023 – CircuitPython supports more sensors and IoT modules

2025 – Mature ecosystem for education and maker projects

code.py - main script that runs on boot

REPL - interactive Python shell for testing

Board - microcontroller running CircuitPython

Library - collection of modules for peripherals

Pin - physical connection for I/O operations