---
title: "Introducing the Micromelon VS Code Extension"
date: "2026-03-04"
categories: ["News & Updates"]
tags: ["Python", "VS Code", "Advanced"]
excerpt: "Connect to your rover, run Python scripts, and view live sensor data — all without leaving VS Code."
featuredImage: "/images/products/vscode-extension-sidebar.png"
---

We're excited to announce the release of the **Micromelon VS Code Extension** — a free extension that brings full rover control into the world's most popular code editor.

Whether your students are ready to graduate from the Micromelon Code Editor or you're a developer looking to integrate rover control into a bigger project, the VS Code extension makes it easy to connect, code, and run — all from one place.

## What It Does

The extension adds a dedicated Micromelon panel to VS Code's sidebar. From there, students can:

- **Connect to any rover** over Bluetooth Low Energy with a single click
- **Run Python scripts** on the rover instantly with F5
- **View live sensor data** — ultrasonic, colour, IR, accelerometer, and gyroscope — updated in real time
- **Use built-in code snippets** — type `mm-` to access ready-made templates for motors, sensors, LEDs, and sounds

It works with both physical Micromelon Rovers and the Robot Simulator, so students can test and iterate without hardware.

## Why VS Code?

VS Code is the most widely used code editor in the world, and it's free. Many schools already have it installed. By meeting students where they are, the extension removes friction and lets them focus on writing Python — not learning a new tool.

It's also the natural next step in the Micromelon learning pathway. Students who started with simplified blocks in Junior, progressed through the Code Editor's block and text modes, and are now ready for a professional development environment can make the jump without losing access to their rover.

## Getting Started

1. Install [VS Code](https://code.visualstudio.com/) (free)
2. Search for **Micromelon** in the Extensions marketplace and install
3. Install the Python library: `pip install micromelon`
4. Click the Micromelon icon in the sidebar and connect to your rover
5. Write your first script and hit F5

That's it — students can go from install to running code on a real robot in minutes.

## Built-In Code Snippets

The extension includes snippets for common tasks so students don't have to memorise the API. Type `mm-` and VS Code will suggest completions like:

- `mm-connect` — Connect to a rover by ID
- `mm-motors` — Drive forward, backward, and turn
- `mm-sensors` — Read ultrasonic, colour, and IR sensors
- `mm-leds` — Set LED colours
- `mm-sounds` — Play notes and melodies

Each snippet includes comments explaining what the code does, making them useful as learning tools as well as shortcuts.

## Works With the Simulator

Don't have a physical rover handy? The extension connects to the Micromelon Robot Simulator just as easily. Students can develop and test their code in the simulator, then deploy the exact same script to a real rover when they're ready.

## Download

The Micromelon VS Code Extension is available now for free on the [VS Code Marketplace](/download). It works on Windows and macOS.

Ready to try it? Head to the [Python page](/python) to learn more, or [download everything you need](/download) to get started.
