Equipment You Will Need To Be a Coder
What We’re Using
Thankfully, Python is a
multi-platform programming language available for Windows, macOS, Linux,
Raspberry Pi and more. If you have one of those systems, then you can easily
start using Python.
Computer
Obviously you’re going to need a
computer in order to learn how to program in Python and to test your code. You
can use Windows (from XP onward) on either a 32 or 64-bit processor, an Apple
Mac or Linux installed PC.
An IDE
An IDE (Integrated Developer Environment)
is used to enter and execute Python code. It enables you to inspect your
program code and the values within the code, as well as offering advanced
features. There are many different IDEs available, so find the one that works
for you and gives the best results.
Python Software
macOS and Linux already come with
Python preinstalled as part of the operating system, as does the Raspberry Pi.
However, you need to ensure that you’re running the latest version of Python.
Windows users need to download and install Python, which we’ll cover shortly.
Text Editor
Whilst a text editor is an ideal
environment to enter code into, it’s not an absolute necessity. You can enter
and execute code directly from the IDLE but a text editor, such as Sublime Text
or Notepad++, offers more advanced features and colour coding when entering
code.
Internet Access
Python is an ever evolving
environment and as such new versions often introduce new concepts or change
existing commands and code structure to make it a more efficient language.
Having access to the Internet will keep you up-to-date, help you out when you
get stuck and give access to Python’s immense number of modules.
Time And Patience
Despite what other books may lead
you to believe, you won’t become a programmer in 24-hours. Learning to code in
Python takes time, and patience. You may become stuck at times and other times
the code will flow like water. Understand you’re learning something entirely
new, and you will get there.
The Raspberry Pi
Why use a Raspberry Pi? The
Raspberry Pi is a tiny computer that’s very cheap to purchase but offers the
user a fantastic learning platform. It’s main operating system, Raspbian, comes
preinstalled with the latest Python along with many Modules and extras.
Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi 3 is the latest
version, incorporating a more powerful CPU, more memory, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
support.
You can pick up a Pi for around
£32 or as a part of kit for £50+, depending on the kit you’re interested in.
Fuze Project
The FUZE is a learning
environment built on the latest model of the Raspberry Pi. You can purchase the
workstations that come with an electronics kit and even a robot arm for you to
build and program. You can find more information on the FUZE at www.fuze.co.uk.
Raspian
The Raspberry Pi’s main operating
system is a Debian-based Linux distribution that comes with everything you need
in a simple to use package. It’s streamlined for the Pi and is an ideal
platform for hardware and software projects, Python programming and even as a
desktop computer.
Books
We have several great Raspberry
Pi titles available via www.bdmpublications.com. Our Pi books cover how to buy
your first Raspberry Pi, set it up and use it; there are some great step-bystep
project examples and guides to get the most from the Raspberry Pi too.
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