Display shield programming in MakeCode

Below are three ways you can program a BBC micro:bit v2 to control a display shield. Starting with the simplest, you can do:

• Block-based programming using the display shield extension in MakeCode
• Using MakeCode Arcade, a variant of MakeCode designed for retro-style games
• In just Static TypeScript (STS) or C++, such as the more complicated micro:bit-apps like MicroCode and MicroData

All of the above techniques have MakeCode simulator support, allowing you to test your micro:bit and display-shield code before flashing your code onto the micro:bit.

Block-based MakeCode Setup

1. Get started with our MakeCode link

This project link starts MakeCode with the display-shield extension already loaded. https://makecode.microbit.org/_U8iPw6AWCbfv

2. Start editing

The link above will open a preview, click ‘Edit’ or ‘Edit Code’

3. MakeCode & simulator startup

You should now see the MakeCode editor, with a micro:bit and display-shield simulator.

4. Use the Drawing toolbox to write to the display

5. Use the Controller toolbox for the display-shield buttons

Get coding with MakeCode!