Baochip VS Code Extension
A VS Code extension for developing applications for Baochip microcontrollers.
This extension integrates building, flashing, and serial monitoring directly into the editor, providing a streamlined development workflow.
Features
Build Modes
The extension auto-detects your workflow from the open workspace:
- In-tree — develop apps inside a local
xous-core checkout
- Out-of-tree — develop standalone apps without a local
xous-core; kernel files can be downloaded automatically or you can provide your own builds.
Welcome Page
A simple start screen with:
- Quick setup actions
- App creation and selection
- Links to documentation
- Optional "show on startup" toggle
Application Workflow
- Create new Baochip applications (scaffolded under
xous-core/apps-dabao/)
- Select existing apps from
xous-core/apps-dabao/
Build Workflow
- Select build target (e.g.,
dabao, baosec)
- Full clean support
Flash Workflow
- Flash UF2 firmware to Baochip devices
Serial Monitor
- Raw mode (immediate keystroke passthrough)
- Line mode with CRLF normalization
- Run Mode ↔ Bootloader Mode option for ports
Combined Build/Flash/Monitor Command
A single command that:
- Builds the firmware
- Flashes via UF2
- Prompts board to boot
- Opens the serial monitor connected to the board in run mode
Useful for rapid development cycles.
Provides:
- Build / flash / monitor controls
- App-related commands
- Documentation links
Localization
The extension user interface supports:
- German (de)
- Japanese (ja)
- Simplified Chinese (zh-cn)
- Traditional Chinese (zh-tw)
Quickstart
1. Install Requirements
2. Open your project
In-tree: Clone and open xous-core in VS Code:
git clone https://github.com/betrusted-io/xous-core
Then, make a new app in
Out-of-tree: Open any folder in VS Code — no xous-core required. Use 'New app' to start from scratch.
3. Configuring the extension
- Prompts for paths, serial ports, and flash locations will appear during normal workflows.
- You can additionally configure settings ad-hoc from the commands list, toolbar, or from Settings
4. Create or Select an App
Use the Welcome page or the command palette:
Baochip: Create App
Baochip: Select App
Applications live inside:
xous-core/apps-dabao/
5. Write code!
- Write code for your app inside the the apps location you have selected.
6. Build, Flash, Monitor
You may use any of the following:
