In order to set your coding environment, there are some specific steps that need to be followed
in order.
It may seem like a lot at first, but after a week you will be just doing it naturally as long
as you follow the process in the beginning.
You will be using a coding program called RobotC, that
runs in Windows8 using VMware on your iMac that uses OSX. (say that three time really fast)
Once you have RobotC open, follow these set up steps:
1. Setting Up The Programming Language
You need to tell the program that we will be using Natural Language Programming for
Vex Cortex -
Go to Robot>>Platform Type>>Innovation>>Natural Language Vex Cortex
2. Open a Sample Program Template
Now you will choose "open a sample program" and look for the PLTW template, OPEN it.
3. Mapping the Port Inputs on Your Cortex
Before you begin writing code, that will reference ports/connectors
on the Cortex, the program needs to know what ports you want to use - so you
will provide that information in the Mapping Interface below.
For the test program we mapped port1 to a vex269 motor
Click APPLY
**no need to save the programs now**
3. Write The CODE!!
Here is a sample program that will test your motor and run it in a single direction for 3 seconds,
or 3000 milliseconds to be more accurate :)
Copy this exactly into your open TEMPLATE, be sure to include all reserved programming characters,
such as (( )), {{ }}, [[ ]], etc...... or your code will fail.
3. RUN THE PROGRAM
Make sure you have:
1. The Cortex connected via USB
2. The Cortex turned ON
3. A motor connected
LOOK FOR "COMPILE & DOWNLOAD"
(if get an error saying you cannot save the program to this folder, don't worry, just hit cancel and proceed... or you can save it to your desktop with a new name)
This will send the program to the Cortex, you will then be presented with a START dialog box option..
Click START and watch your robot move...:)))))))))