I am diving into Micropython for a few IoT projects and wanted to ask how you all manage libraries when you are working on something from scratch. Do you prefer using the pre-installed libraries or do you often find yourself creating custom ones?
I have been running issues with memory limitations and compatibility when trying to add external libraries. I want to optimize my code as much as possible but I am not sure if I am going about it the right way.
Ihave check this How do I add micropython libraries?. Are there any best practices or tips you would suggest when it comes to handling Micropython libraries efficiently? Should I stick with built-in ones or is it better to create smaller, more tailored versions? Also, I am preparing for some python interview ques, so I am trying to solidify my understanding of Micropython too.
Managing libraries in MicroPython can be a bit tricky, especially when dealing with memory constraints. Here’s the deal: use built-in libraries for basic functionality (like I/O or simple sensor handling), as they’re optimized for the hardware. For more complex tasks, you might end up needing external libraries, but they can quickly eat up memory or introduce compatibility issues if they’re not lightweight.
To keep things efficient, I’d suggest customizing or trimming down libraries to only include the functions you actually need. This reduces memory usage without sacrificing functionality. Also, breaking your code into smaller modules that load on demand can help with memory management.
Another tip is to use the gc module to manually free memory at critical points in your program. This can help prevent memory bloat, especially in loops or long-running tasks.
Lastly, if you’re prepping for Python interviews, understanding how to optimize code for constrained environments like MicroPython will definitely set you apart, so be sure to focus on memory management techniques and how they relate to your hardware.