1.2 Pico Setup – Installing MicroPython Firmware

Before we design PCBs, we need to prepare the brain of our projects: the Raspberry Pi Pico.

🎯 Lesson Goal #

In this lesson, you will:

• Understand what MicroPython is
• Prepare a Raspberry Pi Pico for development
• Install MicroPython firmware
• Verify that your Pico is working correctly

By the end of this lesson, your Pico will be ready to run code and later be used on custom PCBs.

🧠 What Is MicroPython? #

MicroPython is a lightweight version of Python designed to run on microcontrollers.

It allows you to:

• Write readable, high-level code
• Rapidly prototype ideas
• Control hardware like LEDs, buttons, and sensors

For this course, MicroPython is used for all projects because it is:

• Beginner-friendly
• Powerful enough for real hardware
• Widely supported on the Raspberry Pi Pico

🔌 What You Need #

Before starting, make sure you have:

• Raspberry Pi Pico (or Pico W)
• USB cable (USB-A to Micro-USB)
• A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• Internet access (for downloading firmware)

No soldering is required for this step.

📥 Downloading the MicroPython Firmware #

1. Go to the official Raspberry Pi MicroPython download page.
2. Download the MicroPython .uf2 file for:
   • Raspberry Pi Pico or
   • Raspberry Pi Pico W (if using Wi-Fi later)

⚠️ Always make sure the firmware matches your board.

🚀 Installing MicroPython on the Pico #

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Enter BOOTSEL Mode #

1. Unplug the Pico from your computer
2. Hold down the BOOTSEL button on the Pico
3. While holding the button, plug the Pico into your computer
4. Release the button

The Pico should now appear as a USB storage device called RPI-RP2.

Step 2: Flash the Firmware #

1. Open the RPI-RP2 drive
2. Drag and drop the downloaded .uf2 file onto it
3. Wait a few seconds

The Pico will:

• Automatically reboot
• Disconnect as a USB drive

This means MicroPython is now installed.

🧪 Verifying the Installation #

To confirm everything works:

1. Open your code editor (such as Thonny)
2. Select:
   • Interpreter: MicroPython (Raspberry Pi Pico)
3. Connect to the Pico

In the Python console, type:

print("Hello NerdCave")