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Pico SDK + VS Code extension

The official C/C++ toolkit for Pico and Pico 2. The Raspberry Pi Pico extension for VS Code installs the SDK and toolchain for you.

What you use it for

  • Maximum performance and PIO programs
  • Professional embedded development
  • Using picotool to inspect boards

Commands

Install in VS Code
Raspberry Pi Pico (extension)
Inspect a board in BOOTSEL mode
picotool info -a

Pro tips

  • Start from the extension's examples — blink and hello_usb build in seconds.
  • PIO lets the Pico generate custom protocols like WS2812 LEDs in hardware.