MPY File – What is .mpy file and how to open it?

MPY File Format

MPY files are bytecode files generated by the MicroPython interpreter. They contain compiled Python code that can be executed on microcontrollers with limited resources. MPY files are typically used to distribute Python modules for MicroPython applications. They are smaller and faster to load than plain Python source code, making them suitable for devices with constrained memory and processing power.

Creating and Using MPY Files

To create an MPY file, one can use the MicroPython pyboard tool. Alternatively, the Python package “micropython-builder” provides a convenient command-line interface for compiling Python code to MPY files. MPY files can be used by importing them into a MicroPython program using the import statement. They can contain functions, classes, and other Python constructs that can be used to extend the functionality of MicroPython applications.

Understanding MicroPython Modules (.MPY Files)

MicroPython is a variant of the Python programming language designed specifically for microcontrollers, embedded systems, and other resource-constrained devices. MicroPython modules (.MPY files) are precompiled Python scripts that contain code and data for extending the capabilities of a MicroPython interpreter. They provide a modular approach to software development, enabling users to easily import and use predefined functions, libraries, and other resources.

Opening and Using MPY Files

MPY files can be opened using a variety of methods, depending on the platform and software being used. In general, you will need a MicroPython interpreter to execute the code within an .MPY file. Some common ways to open MPY files include:

• MicroPython Interactive Shell: You can open MPY files directly in the MicroPython interactive shell by using the import command. For example: import mymodule.mpy
• MicroPython IDEs: Several MicroPython IDEs, such as Thonny, Mu, and PyCharm, allow you to open and edit MPY files. These IDEs provide a convenient environment for developing and executing MicroPython code.
• External Python Interpreters: It is possible to open and execute MPY files using external Python interpreters, such as CPython or PyPy, by installing the MicroPython cross-compiler. This involves converting the .MPY file into a Python script (.PY) that can be interpreted by the external interpreter.

MicroPython Module (MPY)

MPY files are compiled Python bytecode files used by MicroPython, a lean and efficient implementation of the Python programming language designed for microcontrollers and embedded systems. They contain Python code that has been converted into a format that can be interpreted by the MicroPython virtual machine. MPY modules typically define functions, classes, and data structures that can be imported and used within other MicroPython scripts. They facilitate code reuse and modularity in MicroPython projects.

Usage and Features

MPY files are typically created using the MicroPython compiler, which converts Python source code (.py files) into their corresponding MPY bytecode. Once compiled, MPY files can be loaded and executed by the MicroPython interpreter, providing the code within them with access to the MicroPython runtime environment and hardware peripherals. MPY modules are often used to extend the functionality of MicroPython by providing additional libraries, drivers, and utilities. They enable the development of complex applications and embedded systems using MicroPython’s efficient and resource-constrained execution environment.

Other Extensions