Python is highly portable programming language that can run on various software and hardware platforms. Programs written in Python do not need to be compiled into binary code in advance; they can be executed directly from the source code and this greatly simplifies development, accelerating time to market. In addition, Python has extensive and powerful libraries that cover most application scenarios, such as file I/O, GUI, network programming, and database access.

When developing programs with Python, many functionalities can be implemented by calling existing libraries, which eliminates the need to write everything from scratch. Currently, Python is widely used in fields such as servers, databases, image processing, and artificial intelligence due to its simple syntax and rich functionality.

QuecPython is a programming environment that enables IoT solution designers to run their application code directly on a cellular module’s CPU, without requiring an external MCU. This allows innovators to adapt Quectel modules quickly with a low-code approach to suit their precise requirements in less time and at reduced cost.  As technologists come under increasingly intense pressure to bring connected products to market quickly, QuecPython provides Quectel customers with a valuable route to simplifying and streamlining IoT development.

Many beginners using QuecPython may have prior experience with various software and hardware platforms. However, QuecPython, as a new type of internet of things (IoT) development solution, has significant differences compared to traditional development solutions. It is necessary to understand these differences before diving into development and these were highlighted in a recent Quectel Masterclass, QuecPython overview with live demo: develop IoT solutions quickly at reduced cost.

QuecPython differs from traditional MCU development, such as STM32, as it is not bare-metal development but built on top of a complete operating system. Most of the experience gained from bare-metal development cannot be directly applied to QuecPython development, and developers should avoid being misled by past experiences. Compared to traditional MCU development, QuecPython has more in common with development of mobile apps.

The process of QuecPython development is comparable to developing an Android app, which involves the following steps: environment setup, code writing, program download, and debugging and execution.

The Masterclass, presented by Mehmet Cihangir, Queftel’s Turkey and Middle East FAE Group Leader, and Radu Igret, Quectel’s Romania and South East Europe FAE, takes participants through an overview of QuecPython, discussing the development and firmware output flow before also providing a live demo. The session also covers QuecPython documentation, development and firmware; how to set up the programming environment; how to run scripts on a module; module GPIO pin assignment; and which Quectel modules and EVB kits can be used in conjunction with QuecPython.

View the Masterclass: QuecPython overview with live demo: develop IoT solutions quickly at reduced cost