PyPi & MIP

Learn about PyPi and MIP in MicroPython and how they can enhance your projects.

PyPi

In MicroPython, the Python Package Index PyPi (https://www.pypi.org) is an opensource repository of software packages that you can install to extend the functionality of your projects. PyPi contains libraries, modules, and tools that you can use in your MicroPython programs. You can also create a free account on PyPi and submit your own packages to share with the community.

What is PyPi?

The Python Package Index (PyPi) is a repository of software packages for the Python programming language. It contains libraries, modules, and tools that you can install and use in your Python projects. PyPi is a valuable resource for developers, as it provides access to a wide range of packages that can help you build and enhance your projects.

Benefits of Using PyPi

• Extensive Library Collection: PyPi hosts thousands of packages, ranging from data analysis tools to web frameworks, making it a comprehensive resource for developers.
• Easy Installation: Installing packages from PyPi is straightforward, typically requiring just a single command.
• Community Support: Many packages on PyPi are maintained by a community of developers, ensuring continuous updates and support.

Using PyPi in MicroPython

While PyPi is primarily designed for standard Python, many packages are also compatible with MicroPython. However, due to the limited resources of microcontrollers, not all PyPi packages will work with MicroPython.

To install a package from PyPi, you would typically use the pip tool in standard Python. However, for MicroPython, you will often use a similar tool called mip.

MIP

MicroPython includes the mip module, which can install packages from the micropython-lib repository and third-party sites like GitHub and GitLab. The mip tool is similar to Python’s pip but is tailored for MicroPython’s ecosystem. It does not use the PyPI index; instead, it defaults to micropython-lib.

What is MIP?

MIP (MicroPython Install Packages) is a package manager for MicroPython. It allows you to install and manage packages specifically designed for MicroPython. This includes libraries that are optimized for the constraints of microcontrollers.

Using MIP

You can use mip from the REPL to install packages. Here are some examples:

import mip

# Install the latest version of "pkgname" (and dependencies)
mip.install("pkgname")

# Install a specific version of "pkgname"
mip.install("pkgname", version="x.y")

# Install the source version (i.e., .py rather than .mpy files)
mip.install("pkgname", mpy=False)

Benefits of Using MIP

• Optimized for MicroPython: Packages are tailored for the limitations and capabilities of microcontrollers.
• Supports Multiple Sources: MIP can install packages from micropython-lib and third-party repositories like GitHub and GitLab.
• Efficient Installation: Automatically fetches compiled .mpy files when available, ensuring efficient use of memory and processing power.

Summary

PyPi and MIP are essential tools for enhancing your MicroPython projects. PyPi provides a vast repository of packages for standard Python, many of which are compatible with MicroPython. MIP, on the other hand, is specifically designed for MicroPython, allowing you to install and manage packages optimized for microcontrollers. By leveraging these tools, you can significantly extend the functionality and capabilities of your MicroPython projects.

< Previous Next >