Arduino Due: MicroPython Enabled

What is Micropython?

Micropython is a subset of Python 3 optimized for microcontrollers. You can learn more about Micropython here.

Why on Arduino Due?

Arduino Due is the first 32-bit microcontroller introduced in 2013. It has the powerful SAM3X8E chip which runs at 84 Mhz, 96KB of RAM, 512KB of flash memory and tons of extra I/O peripherals like CAN bus and dedicated DACs. This makes Due perfect for running Micropython.

[NOTE: The Micropython port on Arduino Due is still in BETA, so not all peripherals are currently supported. Go to Github repo for the current status of the project]

This is a step-by-step guide on how to flash & run Micropython on Arduino Due.

Step 1: Downloading necessary programs and libraries

• You'll need ARM GCC Toolchain to compile source code. Go to this link to download & install Toolchain for your windows version.

• You'll also need 'make' utility. You can also install it from MinGW project which is a collection of GNU utils for windows.

Alternatives: I highly recommend using cygwin because it's easy to setup, all your files stay in a single folder and you can use this script as CLI package manager.

• You'll also need Arduino IDE installed on your PC.

• PuTTY is required for serial communication.

• A clone of my Git-repo.

Step 2: Installing drivers and setting up tools

• Plug Due's 'Programming port' to the PC.

• Hold the Erase button for a second and release.

• Windows should automatically install drivers and recognize device as 'Arduino Programming port'.

• Now we need to setup Bossac tool. You'll need to add the full path in Windows environment variable list. The executable is in micropython/atmel-sam3x/tools folder.

Step 3: Compiling micropython

• Open command prompt/cygwin and cd into your micropython/atmel-sam3x folder.

• Then type: make

It will compile the source code and create a bin file in /build folder.

Step 3: Flashing Micropython on the Arduino Due

• Plug USB to PC and to Arduino Due's 'Programming port'

• Once detected, go to control panel > Hardware and sound > device manager > ports and note the COM port number. In my case, it is COM8.

• In the same folder (atmel-sam3x) type: make upload port= (your COM Port)

Flashing takes about 20-30 seconds to complete. After successful flashing the board will reboot itself.

Step 4: More driver installation

• Now disconnect the board and plug it again but with 'Native port'.

• Automatic driver installation will eventually fail.

• In the device manager under ports section, you'll see:

• Right click on CDC Virtual Com > Update driver software > browse computer > select the micropython/atmel-sam3x/drivers folder. After installation you'll see the following but with different COM port.

Step 5: Profit

• Open PuTTY and click on Serial button and type your COM port enter speed 115200 and hit open.

• You'll see a blank screen, just hit Ctrl + D and Voila!

• type: help() to see what features board currently supports.

Type the following LED blink program in REPL:

>>>from machine import LED, time
>>>while True:
>>>    LED.toggle()
>>>    time.sleep_ms(500)