Transcript Using the Cortex

Teacher/Mentor Institute
Using the Cortex
Scott McEwen
June 2, 2015
Charge the Batteries

Before you begin any work, charge the
following:

Both 7.2 V batteries

All 6 AAA batteries
Page 2
Introduction to easyC® & Cortex™
Adapted from http://www.intelitekdownloads.com/easyCV4/intro.pdf and
http://best.eng.auburn.edu/stored_procedures/folder-manager/create-folder.php?folder=491&parent_id=489
Page 3
Cortex™ Microcontroller
Page 4
Joystick
Page 5
VEXNet™ USB A-A Tether Cable
and USB Keys
Page 6
Setup for Download
of Firmware to Cortex/Joystick
•
•
•
•
•
AAA batteries in
joystick
Connect
programming cable
Power on
Open easyC
Use same
connection with
Cortex
microcontroller
Page 7
Install easyC
Install easyC v4 for Cortex (Trial version)
on your computer
 Download from

http://www.intelitekdownloads.com/easyCV4/
Page 8
easyC® V4 Programming Software

Download from the
website.

Run as Administrator
to install.
Page 9
Unlocking easyC®

Right-click easyC , Run
as Administrator

Type in your CD Key and
click Unlock.
Page 10
Updating easyC®
Go to Help…Check For Updates. If you don’t have the
latest version, you can download updates.
Update Version?
Page 11
Updating Firmware on
Controller and Joystick
Update Version?
We have done this already

Start…All Programs…easyC v4 For
Cortex…IFI VEXNet Firmware Utility
Page 12
Updating Controller and Joystick

Select SEARCH. If the response is Upgrade
required then BOOTLOAD and YES.
Page 13
Updating Controller and Joystick

Click DOWNLOAD.

Afterward you should
see:
Page 14
Updating Controller and Joystick

Now repeat the entire SEARCH…BootLoad…
DOWNLOAD process with the Cortex
Microcontroller.
Page 15
Tethering Controller and Joystick
After updating the firmware on both the
joystick and Cortex microcontroller:
 Connect the two devices with the tethering
cable and turn them both on.
 Wait until both VEXNet LEDs turn solid
green.
This lets the devices learn each other’s
addresses, so that they can talk together
wirelessly.
Page 16
BEST Control System

From BEST Robotics, Inc. online Resources –
Includes photos of all items in Returnable Kit







Hookups, labels, system features of Cortex
Motor connections & motors, servos
Digital, analog connections
BEST default firmware (default program)
Programming options
Testing tips; team tips; joystick calibration
Where to find help
Page 17