Armourbit Extension Box

Armourbit Extension Box (HKBD9006A)

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Similar to robotbit, Armourbit is an Extension module for Micro:bit, due to its boxy shape, it is called an Extension box.

Armourbit is the main control hub for the Powerbrick system, connecting the Micro:bit with various “bricks”.

It has the following features:

  1. 7 IO Ports and 1 I2C port

  2. Uses 4Pin PH2.0 ports, ensures correct connection

  3. Built-in buzzer and 2 motor ports

  4. 8 servo ports

  5. Complete encasing of the circuit board, improves safety and makes it more suiable for an education environment.

Developers at Kittenbot hopes to provide a way to expand the usability of Micro:bit while also improving safety, making teaching and learning easier for teachers and students.

Details

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Specification

  • Voltage: 3.3V(No 5V output)

  • Dimensions: 61mm X 61mm X 23mm

  • Interface: PH2.0 4PIN Ports , follows the GVAB pinout

  • DC Motor Driver: Voltage<5V, current<1A, compatible with Kittenbot’s motors

  • Servo Drivr： Voltage 3.7~6V, current<100mA for 1 servo, total current<1A, compatible with Kittenbot’s servos

Microsoft MakeCode Programming Platform:

Makecode Online：https://makecode.microbit.org/

Powerbrick Extension：https://github.com/KittenBot/pxt-powerbrick

Pin Distribution

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  • It is not necessary for new users to remember the corresponding pins for each port, it is sufficient to remember the 7 ports.

  • Using Port5-Port7 requires turning off the LED Matrix of the Micro:bit since these Ports are used by Micro:bit’s LED Matrix(Refer to the following figure).

  • Analog modules cannot use Port 4 (Moisture and Water Sensor can’t be used)

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Precautions

  • The Servo Interface is intended to use with 9g servos or Geekservo servos, high current servos should not be used.

  • The DC motor Interface is intended to use with Kittenbot’s TT motors or Geekservo motors, hight current motors should not be used.

  • The built-in buzzer uses Pin 0 of the Micro:bit, please make sure the toggle switch is at the correct position when Pin 0(Port 1) is being used. (Buzzer is set to ON by default)

  • The PowerBrick Battery Box must be connected when modules, servos or motors are being used or they may exhibit erratic behaviour.

Installing Micro:bit onto Armourbit

  1. Slot in the Micro:bit with the A and B buttons facing outwards.

  2. Checking the buzzer toggle switch.

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Resetting the Micro:bit’s program

  1. Power on the Micro:bit.

  2. Press the button on the back of the Armourbit to reset the Micro:bit.

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MakeCode Coding Tutorial

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Using the LED Matrix

Same with Micro:bit.

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Using the Buttons

Same with Micro:bit.

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Using the Buzzer

Same with Micro:bit.

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Extension Version and Updates

There may be updates to extensions periodically, please refer to the following link to update/downgrade your extension.

Makecode Extension Update