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Code your application (Python)

Writing Python Apps​

There are two ways to write Python applications for MatrixOS:

Method 1: Python REPL​

Use the Python app in the application launcher to access a Python REPL through USB serial. This is great for testing and rapid prototyping.

Method 2: Standalone Application​

Create a standalone Python application by placing your files in the device storage. This is great for saving your work and share with others.

Micro SD Card Required

A Micro SD card must be installed in your device to use standalone Python applications. See Install Micro SD Card for installation instructions.

Creating a Standalone Application​

File Structure​

Place your application files in the device storage:

/MatrixOS/Applications/<appname>/

Your application folder must contain:

  • Your Python script files (.py)
  • An AppInfo.json configuration file

AppInfo.json​

The AppInfo.json file defines your application's metadata:

{
  "name": "Hello World",
  "author": "203 System",
  "color": [255, 0, 0],
  "version": 1,
  "osMinimalVer": [3, 0, 0],
  "appMainFile": "HelloWorld.py"
}

Required fields:

  • name: Your application's display name
  • author: Your name or organization
  • color: RGB color array [R, G, B] for the app icon (0-255)
  • version: Application version number
  • osMinimalVer: Minimum MatrixOS version required [major, minor, patch]
  • appMainFile: The main Python file to execute (can be .py for source code or .py.a for compiled Python code)

Clear Compiled Byte Code​

Matrix OS will auto pick compiled bytecode over raw .py files. So if you updated the .py file, make sure to delete the /MatrixOS/Applications/<appname>/pikapython-api folder to force recompile.

Example Applications​

For App examples, see: https://github.com/203Systems/Matrix-OS-Python-App-Examples

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