Setup Envirrment

Install in Laptop/Desktop

Thonny, Python IDE for beginners

Open Thonny from your application launcher. It should look something like this:

Thonny application

You can use Thonny to write standard Python code. Type the following in the main window, and then click the Run button (you will be asked to save the file).

print('Hello World!')

Find the BOOTSEL button on your Raspberry Pi Pico.

BOOTSEL button

Press the BOOTSEL button and hold it while you connect the other end of the micro USB cable to your computer.

In the bottom right-hand corner of the Thonny window, you will see the version of Python that you are currently using.

Status bar version

Click on the Python version and choose ‘MicroPython (Raspberry Pi Pico)’:

Select MicroPython from the menu

If you don’t see this option, then check that you have plugged in your Raspberry Pi Pico.

A dialog box will pop up to install the latest version of the MicroPython firmware on your Raspberry Pi Pico.

Click the Install button to copy the firmware to your Raspberry Pi Pico.

Wait for the installation to complete and click Close.

You can also access the firmware installation menu if you click on ‘MicroPython (Raspberry Pi Pico)’ in the status bar and choose ‘Configure interpreter …’.

Configure interpreter menu

The interpreter settings will open.

Configure interpreter settings

Click on Install or update firmware.

You will be prompted to plug in your Raspberry Pi Pico while you hold the BOOTSEL button.

Hold BOOTSEL button and plug in

Then you can click Install.

Install firmware

Wait for the installation to complete and click Close.