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Install & Set Up MicroPython

Prerequisites​

  • Hardware

    • Raspberry Pi Pico W (RP2040 + Wi-Fi)
    • Pimoroni Explorer Pico W extension board (provides motors, analog sensors, capacitive touch, LEDs, and more)
    • USB data cable (USB-A/USB-C to micro-USB)

  • Software

Why use the extension?

The official Raspberry Pi Pico extension streamlines:

  • Creating a MicroPython project
  • Opening a REPL
  • Uploading files to the Pico W
note

Alternatively, you can use Wyliodrin Studio.

1) Install the Raspberry Pi Pico extension​

  1. Open VS Code.
  2. Go to Extensions (left sidebar) -> search for "Raspberry Pi Pico".
  3. Install the extension published by Raspberry Pi.

2) How to open the VS Code Command Palette​

The Command Palette is where you access all extension commands.

  • Windows / Linux: Press Ctrl + Shift + P
  • macOS: Press Cmd + Shift + P

You can also open it from the menu: View -> Command Palette...

3) Create a MicroPython project (via the extension)​

  1. Open the Command Palette (Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + P).
  2. Search for and select: Pico: New Project (MicroPython).
  3. Choose a folder for your project.
  4. When asked for Board, pick Raspberry Pi Pico W.

4) Flash the MicroPython firmware​

If firmware was already flashed, skip to step 5.

  1. Unplug the Pico W from USB.
  2. Hold down the BOOTSEL button on the Pico.
  3. While holding, connect the USB cable to your computer.
  4. Release the button when a USB mass-storage drive (e.g., RPI-RP2) appears.
  5. Download the latest release for pimoroni picow micropython from the releases page.
  6. Copy the .uf2 file to the RPI-RP2 drive.

5) Common VS Code commands for Pico W​

Open the Command Palette and look for:

  • Pico: New Project (MicroPython)
  • Pico: Flash MicroPython (UF2)
  • Pico: Open REPL
  • Pico: Upload Project to Pico

6) Troubleshooting​

The RPI-RP2 drive doesn't appear (BOOTSEL)​

  • Try a different USB cable (some are charge-only).
  • Hold BOOTSEL, plug in, then release after connecting.
  • Use a direct USB port (avoid hubs).

REPL/serial port not found​

  • Windows: Check Device Manager -> Ports (COM & LPT).

  • macOS: Look for /dev/tty.usbmodem*.

  • Linux: Look for /dev/ttyACM*. You may need to add your user to the dialout group and re-login:

    sudo usermod -a -G dialout $USER

    If still blocked, confirm your udev rules allow access to ttyACM.

Upload succeeds but nothing runs​

  • Open the REPL to see exceptions printed at startup.